New Scientist - Technology New Scientist - Technology https://www.newscientist.com/ New Scientist - Technology https://www.newscientist.com/build/images/ns-logo-scaled.ed2dc11a.png https://www.newscientist.com daily 1 These photos show AI used to reinterpret centuries-old graffiti https://www.newscientist.com/article/2427217-these-photos-show-ai-used-to-reinterpret-centuries-old-graffiti/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 17 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0100 Artist Matthew Attard turned to eye-tracking technology to generate a fresh take on images of ships carved by seafarers on chapels in Malta hundreds of years ago 2427217-these-photos-show-ai-used-to-reinterpret-centuries-old-graffiti|2427217 Quantum-proof encryption may not actually stop quantum hackers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2427167-quantum-proof-encryption-may-not-actually-stop-quantum-hackers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 18 Apr 2024 11:31:44 +0100 Cryptographers are scrambling to understand an algorithm that could undermine the mathematics behind next-generation encryption methods, which are intended to protect against quantum computers 2427167-quantum-proof-encryption-may-not-actually-stop-quantum-hackers|2427167 Intel reveals world's biggest 'brain-inspired' neuromorphic computer https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426523-intel-reveals-worlds-biggest-brain-inspired-neuromorphic-computer/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 17 Apr 2024 17:00:22 +0100 A computer intended to mimic the way the brain processes and stores data could potentially improve the efficiency and capabilities of artificial intelligence models 2426523-intel-reveals-worlds-biggest-brain-inspired-neuromorphic-computer|2426523 Watch a swarm of cyborg cockroaches controlled by computers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424745-watch-a-swarm-of-cyborg-cockroaches-controlled-by-computers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:49:39 +0100 Remote-controlled cockroaches with computers mounted on their backs can move as a swarm towards a target location, and could be used for search missions 2424745-watch-a-swarm-of-cyborg-cockroaches-controlled-by-computers|2424745 Why AIs that tackle complex maths could be the next big breakthrough https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26234863-500-why-ais-that-tackle-complex-maths-could-be-the-next-big-breakthrough/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 10 Apr 2024 19:00:00 +0100 Research-level mathematics might seem an unlikely proving ground for artificial intelligence, but recent developments suggest it offers a route to automated human-like reasoning mg26234863-500-why-ais-that-tackle-complex-maths-could-be-the-next-big-breakthrough|2426264 How AI mathematicians might finally deliver human-level reasoning https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26234863-300-how-ai-mathematicians-might-finally-deliver-human-level-reasoning/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 10 Apr 2024 17:00:00 +0100 Artificial intelligence is taking on some of the hardest problems in pure maths, arguably demonstrating sophisticated reasoning and creativity – and a big step forward for AI mg26234863-300-how-ai-mathematicians-might-finally-deliver-human-level-reasoning|2426113 Chatbots can persuade conspiracy theorists their view might be wrong https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426618-chatbots-can-persuade-conspiracy-theorists-their-view-might-be-wrong/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 12 Apr 2024 12:00:46 +0100 After a short conversation with an artificial intelligence, people’s belief in a conspiracy theory dropped by about 20 per cent 2426618-chatbots-can-persuade-conspiracy-theorists-their-view-might-be-wrong|2426618 Water purifier is powered by static electricity from your body https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426626-water-purifier-is-powered-by-static-electricity-from-your-body/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 12 Apr 2024 11:00:31 +0100 A 10-minute walk can build up enough static electricity to power a battery-free water purifier, which could be especially helpful during disasters or in regions that lack access to clean water and stable power supplies 2426626-water-purifier-is-powered-by-static-electricity-from-your-body|2426626 AI can spot parasites in stool samples to help diagnose infections https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426237-ai-can-spot-parasites-in-stool-samples-to-help-diagnose-infections/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 11 Apr 2024 20:00:09 +0100 About 1.5 billion people worldwide carry a risk of conditions including malnutrition because of parasitic infection, and AI could help identify those affected 2426237-ai-can-spot-parasites-in-stool-samples-to-help-diagnose-infections|2426237 Watch mini humanoid robots showing off their football skills https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426328-watch-mini-humanoid-robots-showing-off-their-football-skills/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 10 Apr 2024 20:00:44 +0100 These soccer-playing robots can respond faster than ones trained in a standard way because they improved their skills via an artificial intelligence-based technique called deep reinforcement learning 2426328-watch-mini-humanoid-robots-showing-off-their-football-skills|2426328 Phone batteries could last 50% longer if more 5G towers are built https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423849-phone-batteries-could-last-50-longer-if-more-5g-towers-are-built/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 10 Apr 2024 07:00:58 +0100 Adding more masts could reduce the overall energy use of phone networks by two-thirds and boost handset battery life by 50 per cent 2423849-phone-batteries-could-last-50-longer-if-more-5g-towers-are-built|2423849 AI pop-ups can help you stop doomscrolling on your phone https://www.newscientist.com/article/2426007-ai-pop-ups-can-help-you-stop-doomscrolling-on-your-phone/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 08 Apr 2024 20:05:27 +0100 An AI program can learn from smartphone users' behaviours in order to send timely pop-up reminders about when to close attention-grabbing apps. The system effectively reduced how often people opened apps such as TikTok 2426007-ai-pop-ups-can-help-you-stop-doomscrolling-on-your-phone|2426007 Microsoft and Quantinuum’s quantum computer may be most reliable yet https://www.newscientist.com/article/2425243-microsoft-and-quantinuums-quantum-computer-may-be-most-reliable-yet/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 03 Apr 2024 15:00:36 +0100 A quantum computer built by Quantinuum uses “logical quantum bits” designed by Microsoft to run simple computational routines with an unprecedented level of reliability 2425243-microsoft-and-quantinuums-quantum-computer-may-be-most-reliable-yet|2425243 Showing AI just 1000 extra images reduced AI-generated stereotypes https://www.newscientist.com/article/2425065-showing-ai-just-1000-extra-images-reduced-ai-generated-stereotypes/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 02 Apr 2024 21:06:36 +0100 Researchers made an AI image generator produce less offensive images by feeding it a tiny amount of additional training data 2425065-showing-ai-just-1000-extra-images-reduced-ai-generated-stereotypes|2425065 Unprecedented GPS jamming attack affects 1600 aircraft over Europe https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424678-unprecedented-gps-jamming-attack-affects-1600-aircraft-over-europe/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 29 Mar 2024 16:00:20 +0000 A 63-hour-long marathon of GPS jamming attacks disrupted global satellite navigation systems for hundreds of aircraft flying through the Baltic region – and Russia is thought to be responsible 2424678-unprecedented-gps-jamming-attack-affects-1600-aircraft-over-europe|2424678 ‘Yell at your robot’ technique teaches robots household chores https://www.newscientist.com/article/2425023-yell-at-your-robot-technique-teaches-robots-household-chores/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 01 Apr 2024 16:00:48 +0100 AI allows robots to listen to verbal instructions while learning to correctly perform household tasks. That could enable more natural interactions between humans and robots 2425023-yell-at-your-robot-technique-teaches-robots-household-chores|2425023 Why our ageing world could accelerate progress in AI and robotics https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134843-700-why-our-ageing-world-could-accelerate-progress-in-ai-and-robotics/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +0000 We are heading for a demographic crunch later this century, but might a workforce of intelligent machines compensate for a likely lack of human workers? mg26134843-700-why-our-ageing-world-could-accelerate-progress-in-ai-and-robotics|2424154 AI chatbots beat humans at persuading their opponents in debates https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424856-ai-chatbots-beat-humans-at-persuading-their-opponents-in-debates/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 01 Apr 2024 07:00:33 +0100 When people were challenged to debate contentious topics with a human or GPT-4, they were more likely to be won over by the artificial intelligence 2424856-ai-chatbots-beat-humans-at-persuading-their-opponents-in-debates|2424856 Chair for gamers boosts player performance and prevents muscular aches https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424188-chair-for-gamers-boosts-player-performance-and-prevents-muscular-aches/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 28 Mar 2024 12:00:02 +0000 Gamers seemed to be more comfortable after playing in a specialist gaming chair compared with a standard office chair 2424188-chair-for-gamers-boosts-player-performance-and-prevents-muscular-aches|2424188 This robot predicts when you're going to smile – and smiles back https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424545-this-robot-predicts-when-youre-going-to-smile-and-smiles-back/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:00:05 +0000 An AI-powered robot named Emo watches people’s facial expressions and tries to match them, in an effort to make robots more relatable 2424545-this-robot-predicts-when-youre-going-to-smile-and-smiles-back|2424545 Implantable battery is charged up by the body's oxygen supply https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423217-implantable-battery-is-charged-up-by-the-bodys-oxygen-supply/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:00:10 +0000 Many medical implants run on batteries that need to be recharged, but what if you could do so just by breathing? 2423217-implantable-battery-is-charged-up-by-the-bodys-oxygen-supply|2423217 AI chatbots are improving at an even faster rate than computer chips https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424179-ai-chatbots-are-improving-at-an-even-faster-rate-than-computer-chips/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 27 Mar 2024 10:00:49 +0000 The large language models behind AI chatbots are developing so rapidly that after eight months, a model only needs half the computing power to hit the same benchmark score - which is much faster than the rate at which computer chips improve 2424179-ai-chatbots-are-improving-at-an-even-faster-rate-than-computer-chips|2424179 AI forecaster can predict the future better than humans https://www.newscientist.com/article/2424121-ai-forecaster-can-predict-the-future-better-than-humans/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 26 Mar 2024 15:00:39 +0000 An AI forecaster based on the language model GPT-4 can predict the outcome of future events more accurately than single humans. In some cases, it can even outperform the “wisdom of crowds” 2424121-ai-forecaster-can-predict-the-future-better-than-humans|2424121 Paper planes made by a robot fly better than ones made by humans https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423858-paper-planes-made-by-a-robot-fly-better-than-ones-made-by-humans/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 26 Mar 2024 12:00:07 +0000 A robot that can design, build and test objects made from folded paper can make paper planes that fly further than ones made by a human having the same number of attempts 2423858-paper-planes-made-by-a-robot-fly-better-than-ones-made-by-humans|2423858 Why giving AI a robot body could make its ‘brain’ more human-like https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423793-why-giving-ai-a-robot-body-could-make-its-brain-more-human-like/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 21 Mar 2024 21:30:18 +0000 At its AI conference, Nvidia announced new software and hardware for AI-powered humanoid robots: a model called Project GR00T and a computer called Jetson Thor 2423793-why-giving-ai-a-robot-body-could-make-its-brain-more-human-like|2423793 Has Neuralink made a breakthrough in brain implant technology? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423483-has-neuralink-made-a-breakthrough-in-brain-implant-technology/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 21 Mar 2024 13:14:31 +0000 Elon Musk's brain-computer interface firm Neuralink has released a video of its first patient, Noland Arbaugh, controlling a computer cursor with his thoughts - is this the future? 2423483-has-neuralink-made-a-breakthrough-in-brain-implant-technology|2423483 Flying drone can roll on the ground to save energy over long distances https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420991-flying-drone-can-roll-on-the-ground-to-save-energy-over-long-distances/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 20 Mar 2024 14:00:21 +0000 Researchers claim to have combined the benefits of rolling robots with those of flying drones by creating a device that rotates along the ground but hops over obstacles 2420991-flying-drone-can-roll-on-the-ground-to-save-energy-over-long-distances|2420991 Artists who use AI are more productive but less original https://www.newscientist.com/article/2423087-artists-who-use-ai-are-more-productive-but-less-original/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 20 Mar 2024 06:00:22 +0000 An analysis of work posted on a popular art-sharing website finds that users who adopted generative artificial intelligence tools increased their output, but saw a drop in novelty 2423087-artists-who-use-ai-are-more-productive-but-less-original|2423087 DeepMind and Liverpool FC develop AI to advise on football tactics https://www.newscientist.com/article/2422562-deepmind-and-liverpool-fc-develop-ai-to-advise-on-football-tactics/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 19 Mar 2024 16:00:11 +0000 An AI model trained on data from Premier League matches can help football coaches devise tactics for attacking or defending corner kicks 2422562-deepmind-and-liverpool-fc-develop-ai-to-advise-on-football-tactics|2422562 Nvidia's Blackwell AI 'superchip' is the most powerful yet https://www.newscientist.com/article/2422928-nvidias-blackwell-ai-superchip-is-the-most-powerful-yet/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 19 Mar 2024 09:59:37 +0000 A computer chip featuring over 400 billion transistors can train artificial intelligence models faster and using less energy, says Nvidia - but it is yet to reveal the price tag 2422928-nvidias-blackwell-ai-superchip-is-the-most-powerful-yet|2422928 Miniature furniture 3D printed using ink made from recycled wood https://www.newscientist.com/article/2422567-miniature-furniture-3d-printed-using-ink-made-from-recycled-wood/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 15 Mar 2024 18:00:17 +0000 Waste wood can be reconstituted into a form that can be 3D printed and used to produce furniture or other objects 2422567-miniature-furniture-3d-printed-using-ink-made-from-recycled-wood|2422567 AI, orchestra and dance combine in retelling of Polish folklore tale https://www.newscientist.com/video/2421712-ai-orchestra-and-dance-combine-in-retelling-of-polish-folklore-tale/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 14 Mar 2024 10:00:31 +0000 New Wayne McGregor production combines AI, orchestral music and dance to breathe new life into a Polish folk story 2421712-ai-orchestra-and-dance-combine-in-retelling-of-polish-folklore-tale|2421712 Combatting deepfakes is an evolutionary arms race https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134820-900-combatting-deepfakes-is-an-evolutionary-arms-race/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:00:00 +0000 Disinformation is far older than humans. Lessons from evolutionary biology can help defend against it today, says Jonathan R. Goodman mg26134820-900-combatting-deepfakes-is-an-evolutionary-arms-race|2421534 Watch an AI-powered robot dog crawl around an obstacle course https://www.newscientist.com/article/2421955-watch-an-ai-powered-robot-dog-crawl-around-an-obstacle-course/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 13 Mar 2024 18:00:19 +0000 A four-legged robot can handle real-world obstacles that require scrambling up and down or leaping sizeable gaps. AI training lets it adapt to new terrain it hasn’t seen before 2421955-watch-an-ai-powered-robot-dog-crawl-around-an-obstacle-course|2421955 US legislators vote to ban TikTok unless it severs ties with China https://www.newscientist.com/article/2421970-us-legislators-vote-to-ban-tiktok-unless-it-severs-ties-with-china/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 13 Mar 2024 15:00:14 +0000 The US House of Representatives has passed a bill that will require TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, to sell the app or risk a nationwide ban 2421970-us-legislators-vote-to-ban-tiktok-unless-it-severs-ties-with-china|2421970 Google AI learns to play open-world video games by watching them https://www.newscientist.com/article/2422101-google-ai-learns-to-play-open-world-video-games-by-watching-them/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 13 Mar 2024 14:15:48 +0000 An artificial intelligence from Google DeepMind can play nine open-world video games like a human, by watching video from a screen and controlling a keyboard and mouse 2422101-google-ai-learns-to-play-open-world-video-games-by-watching-them|2422101 US government wants to tax bitcoin to reduce its environmental impact https://www.newscientist.com/article/2421745-us-government-wants-to-tax-bitcoin-to-reduce-its-environmental-impact/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 12 Mar 2024 16:15:11 +0000 The computers that secure cryptocurrencies like bitcoin consume large amounts of power, pushing up electricity prices and potentially contributing to climate change. Now, the US government wants to tackle the problem 2421745-us-government-wants-to-tax-bitcoin-to-reduce-its-environmental-impact|2421745 Could an AI replace all music ever recorded with Taylor Swift covers? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418740-could-an-ai-replace-all-music-ever-recorded-with-taylor-swift-covers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 12 Mar 2024 08:00:50 +0000 A thought experiment in which all music is replaced with AI-generated "Taylor's Versions" should prompt us to find ways to protect data from AI corruption, warn researchers 2418740-could-an-ai-replace-all-music-ever-recorded-with-taylor-swift-covers|2418740 The surprising promise and profound perils of AIs that fake empathy https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134810-900-the-surprising-promise-and-profound-perils-of-ais-that-fake-empathy/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 06 Mar 2024 16:00:00 +0000 Millions of us are turning to chatbots for emotional support. But there are good reasons to think AIs will never be capable of genuine empathy, raising profound questions about their role in society mg26134810-900-the-surprising-promise-and-profound-perils-of-ais-that-fake-empathy|2420285 Snail robot excretes sticky mucus that helps it crawl up slopes https://www.newscientist.com/article/2421134-snail-robot-excretes-sticky-mucus-that-helps-it-crawl-up-slopes/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 08 Mar 2024 20:00:29 +0000 A remotely controlled robot with an inflatable foot that oozes mucus can crawl across surfaces like a snail, and could inspire soft medical robots that move through mucus-lined cavities in the human body 2421134-snail-robot-excretes-sticky-mucus-that-helps-it-crawl-up-slopes|2421134 Quantum memory device could stop unhackable networks from failing https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420664-quantum-memory-device-could-stop-unhackable-networks-from-failing/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 08 Mar 2024 18:00:19 +0000 A memory device that temporarily saves quantum information could become an important addition to quantum networks because it would allow users to salvage information if it fails to transfer properly 2420664-quantum-memory-device-could-stop-unhackable-networks-from-failing|2420664 AI chatbot models ‘think’ in English even when using other languages https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420973-ai-chatbot-models-think-in-english-even-when-using-other-languages/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 08 Mar 2024 13:00:25 +0000 When answering questions posed in Chinese, French, German or Russian, large language models seem to process the queries in English, which could create cultural issues 2420973-ai-chatbot-models-think-in-english-even-when-using-other-languages|2420973 D-Wave says its quantum computers can solve otherwise impossible tasks https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420543-d-wave-says-its-quantum-computers-can-solve-otherwise-impossible-tasks/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 07 Mar 2024 16:33:52 +0000 Quantum computing firm D-Wave says its machines are the first to achieve "computational supremacy" by solving a practically useful problem that would otherwise take millions of years on an ordinary supercomputer 2420543-d-wave-says-its-quantum-computers-can-solve-otherwise-impossible-tasks|2420543 AI chatbots use racist stereotypes even after anti-racism training https://www.newscientist.com/article/2421067-ai-chatbots-use-racist-stereotypes-even-after-anti-racism-training/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 07 Mar 2024 11:00:06 +0000 Large language models still demonstrate racial prejudice against speakers of African American English, despite the safety guard rails implemented by tech companies such as OpenAI 2421067-ai-chatbots-use-racist-stereotypes-even-after-anti-racism-training|2421067 US Army tests AI chatbots as battle planners in a war game simulation https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420184-us-army-tests-ai-chatbots-as-battle-planners-in-a-war-game-simulation/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 05 Mar 2024 16:00:06 +0000 Researchers in the US Army are experimenting with commercial AI chatbots as battlefield advisers in war game simulations – but experts caution that such AI should not be used in high-stakes situations 2420184-us-army-tests-ai-chatbots-as-battle-planners-in-a-war-game-simulation|2420184 Google launches $5m prize to find actual uses for quantum computers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420137-google-launches-5m-prize-to-find-actual-uses-for-quantum-computers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:00:31 +0000 Existing quantum computers can solve some problems faster than any ordinary computer, but none of those problems has any practical use. Google and XPRIZE hope to change that 2420137-google-launches-5m-prize-to-find-actual-uses-for-quantum-computers|2420137 Smart glasses use sonar to work out where you're looking https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418742-smart-glasses-use-sonar-to-work-out-where-youre-looking/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 04 Mar 2024 06:00:33 +0000 Gaze-tracking devices normally rely on cameras, but a new system uses reflected sound to track where someone is looking based on the shape of their eyeballs 2418742-smart-glasses-use-sonar-to-work-out-where-youre-looking|2418742 Elon Musk asks court to decide if GPT-4 has human-level intelligence https://www.newscientist.com/article/2420111-elon-musk-asks-court-to-decide-if-gpt-4-has-human-level-intelligence/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 01 Mar 2024 13:43:53 +0000 As part of a lawsuit against OpenAI, billionaire Elon Musk has asked a court to determine whether GPT-4 is an artificial general intelligence, capable of human-level tasks 2420111-elon-musk-asks-court-to-decide-if-gpt-4-has-human-level-intelligence|2420111 How will AIs like ChatGPT affect elections this year? https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134800-100-how-will-ais-like-chatgpt-affect-elections-this-year/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 28 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000 We are beginning to see the tip of the iceberg when it comes to threats from chatbots. In a huge election year, how will AI affect upcoming votes, asks Alex Wilkins mg26134800-100-how-will-ais-like-chatgpt-affect-elections-this-year|2418954 We aren't addicted to our phones and we don't need a 'digital detox' https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg26134762-000-we-arent-addicted-to-our-phones-and-we-dont-need-a-digital-detox/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 31 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000 Describing ourselves as addicted to our phones is a counterproductive way to frame our overuse of technology, argues Pete Etchells mg26134762-000-we-arent-addicted-to-our-phones-and-we-dont-need-a-digital-detox|2414786 AIs get better at maths if you tell them to pretend to be in Star Trek https://www.newscientist.com/article/2419531-ais-get-better-at-maths-if-you-tell-them-to-pretend-to-be-in-star-trek/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:18 +0000 Chatbots vary their answers depending on the exact wording used to prompt them, and now it seems that asking an AI to answer as if it were a Star Trek captain boosts its mathematical ability 2419531-ais-get-better-at-maths-if-you-tell-them-to-pretend-to-be-in-star-trek|2419531 YouTube has managed to stop its algorithm serving up extreme videos https://www.newscientist.com/article/2419033-youtube-has-managed-to-stop-its-algorithm-serving-up-extreme-videos/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 27 Feb 2024 18:00:47 +0000 YouTube's recommendation algorithm previously pushed users towards viewing ever more extreme videos, but now it steers people away from such content 2419033-youtube-has-managed-to-stop-its-algorithm-serving-up-extreme-videos|2419033 Is battery swapping a better way to recharge electric cars? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2419065-is-battery-swapping-a-better-way-to-recharge-electric-cars/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 27 Feb 2024 15:00:20 +0000 With queues at public charging points getting longer, some companies are opening power swap stations where you can simply exchange your battery for a fully charged one 2419065-is-battery-swapping-a-better-way-to-recharge-electric-cars|2419065 Resurrecting loved ones as AI 'ghosts' could harm your mental health https://www.newscientist.com/article/2416079-resurrecting-loved-ones-as-ai-ghosts-could-harm-your-mental-health/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 26 Feb 2024 08:00:40 +0000 It may soon be possible to recreate the persona of someone who has died by training an artificial intelligence on their emails and texts - but is it a good idea? 2416079-resurrecting-loved-ones-as-ai-ghosts-could-harm-your-mental-health|2416079 Bitcoin creator Satoshi Nakamoto dismissed early climate concerns https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418762-bitcoin-creator-satoshi-nakamoto-dismissed-early-climate-concerns/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 23 Feb 2024 16:27:52 +0000 Newly released emails have revealed that the pseudonymous creator of bitcoin was aware of concerns over the potential energy use and carbon emissions of the cryptocurrency, but felt there was no alternative 2418762-bitcoin-creator-satoshi-nakamoto-dismissed-early-climate-concerns|2418762 A robot dog has learned to open doors with its leg https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418439-a-robot-dog-has-learned-to-open-doors-with-its-leg/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:00:17 +0000 Four-legged robots typically need an arm to open doors or pick up objects, but this mechanical canid can carry out tasks with its front leg 2418439-a-robot-dog-has-learned-to-open-doors-with-its-leg|2418439 LGBTQ people seen as needing more protection online than Christians https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418045-lgbtq-people-seen-as-needing-more-protection-online-than-christians/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 23 Feb 2024 06:00:26 +0000 A study of around 9000 US adults has found that people are more in favour of removing toxic social media posts when they attack a member of the LGBTQ community than those targeting Christians or billionaires 2418045-lgbtq-people-seen-as-needing-more-protection-online-than-christians|2418045 GPT-4 developer tool can hack websites without human help https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418201-gpt-4-developer-tool-can-hack-websites-without-human-help/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:00:59 +0000 The developer version of OpenAI’s leading large language model can be repurposed as an AI hacking agent, researchers have found. That could make it far easier for anyone to launch certain cyberattacks online 2418201-gpt-4-developer-tool-can-hack-websites-without-human-help|2418201 Bitcoin halving: When is it and what does it actually mean? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417747-bitcoin-halving-when-is-it-and-what-does-it-actually-mean/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:26:04 +0000 The bitcoin halving, which occurs once every four years and is expected to take place this week, will reduce rewards for miners and some investors think it will push prices higher 2417747-bitcoin-halving-when-is-it-and-what-does-it-actually-mean|2417747 Realism of OpenAI’s Sora video generator raises security concerns https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417639-realism-of-openais-sora-video-generator-raises-security-concerns/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Sat, 17 Feb 2024 00:30:28 +0000 The latest AI model capable of converting text into video is attracting praise from some AI researchers, while also raising concerns about the risks of video deepfakes during global elections in 2024 2417639-realism-of-openais-sora-video-generator-raises-security-concerns|2417639 Deepfakes are out of control – is it too late to stop them? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2418188-deepfakes-are-out-of-control-is-it-too-late-to-stop-them/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 21 Feb 2024 08:00:47 +0000 AI-manipulated audio clips, images and videos have been used to harass people, scam money and influence elections, despite efforts to rein them in 2418188-deepfakes-are-out-of-control-is-it-too-late-to-stop-them|2418188 Researchers increasingly view tech as having human-like qualities https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417992-researchers-increasingly-view-tech-as-having-human-like-qualities/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 21 Feb 2024 06:00:11 +0000 Anthropomorphism - attributing human-like characteristics to non-human objects - is on the rise amongst technology researchers, particular when it comes to AI chatbots 2417992-researchers-increasingly-view-tech-as-having-human-like-qualities|2417992 Quantum computers are constantly hampered by cosmic rays https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417786-quantum-computers-are-constantly-hampered-by-cosmic-rays/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 20 Feb 2024 11:00:46 +0000 Investigations into quantum computing mishaps caused by high-powered particles from space have revealed that these cosmic rays are responsible for a significant number of errors 2417786-quantum-computers-are-constantly-hampered-by-cosmic-rays|2417786 ChatGPT can tailor political ads to match users' personalities https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417584-chatgpt-can-tailor-political-ads-to-match-users-personalities/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 20 Feb 2024 09:00:24 +0000 Generative AI can rewrite political adverts on social media to target users with different personality types, making it easier to manipulate elections using personal data on a large scale 2417584-chatgpt-can-tailor-political-ads-to-match-users-personalities|2417584 Nanobot uses a DNA clutch to engage its engine https://www.newscientist.com/article/2416953-nanobot-uses-a-dna-clutch-to-engage-its-engine/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 16 Feb 2024 06:00:45 +0000 A tiny robot with a clutch that mimics similar mechanisms found in microorganisms could be used to trigger the internal workings of a cell 2416953-nanobot-uses-a-dna-clutch-to-engage-its-engine|2416953 Lasers smaller than a human hair emit doughnut-shaped light https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417354-lasers-smaller-than-a-human-hair-emit-doughnut-shaped-light/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 15 Feb 2024 21:00:06 +0000 Incredibly thin, hollow wires made from gallium and nitrogen can produce laser beams that are hollow with a ring-shaped cross-section, and that could be used to create optical fibres out of thin air 2417354-lasers-smaller-than-a-human-hair-emit-doughnut-shaped-light|2417354 How your age, gender and nationality alter how you interpret emojis https://www.newscientist.com/article/2417210-how-your-age-gender-and-nationality-alter-how-you-interpret-emojis/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 14 Feb 2024 19:00:26 +0000 An emoji that represents happiness to one person may signify a different emotion to another, with this varying according to our age, gender and nationality 2417210-how-your-age-gender-and-nationality-alter-how-you-interpret-emojis|2417210 People who are blind can navigate indoors with a phone in their pocket https://www.newscientist.com/article/2412753-people-who-are-blind-can-navigate-indoors-with-a-phone-in-their-pocket/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:00:19 +0000 Two wayfinding apps use motion sensors and AI to help people who are blind navigate a building, without needing to hold their phone out in front of them and risk theft 2412753-people-who-are-blind-can-navigate-indoors-with-a-phone-in-their-pocket|2412753 Blood vessels made with 3D-printed ice could improve lab-grown organs https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415964-blood-vessels-made-with-3d-printed-ice-could-improve-lab-grown-organs/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Sat, 10 Feb 2024 13:00:03 +0000 Moulds of an organ's delicate blood vessel network can be made with 3D-printed ice, helping to overcome the intricacies of growing transplant organs in a lab 2415964-blood-vessels-made-with-3d-printed-ice-could-improve-lab-grown-organs|2415964 Sensitive prosthetic lets man feel hot and cold in his missing hand https://www.newscientist.com/article/2416609-sensitive-prosthetic-lets-man-feel-hot-and-cold-in-his-missing-hand/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 09 Feb 2024 16:00:31 +0000 By applying heat or cold in certain locations on the upper arm, an adapted prosthetic with sensors can give people with an amputation the sensation of temperature in their phantom limb 2416609-sensitive-prosthetic-lets-man-feel-hot-and-cold-in-his-missing-hand|2416609 Minecraft could be the key to creating adaptable AI https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414144-minecraft-could-be-the-key-to-creating-adaptable-ai/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 09 Feb 2024 11:00:17 +0000 Researchers have a new way to assess an AI model’s intelligence: drop it into a game of Minecraft, with no information about its surroundings, and see how well it plays 2414144-minecraft-could-be-the-key-to-creating-adaptable-ai|2414144 Spiral scratches on contact lenses can turn them into multifocals https://www.newscientist.com/article/2416305-spiral-scratches-on-contact-lenses-can-turn-them-into-multifocals/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 08 Feb 2024 15:00:29 +0000 Inscribing a spiral in the centre of a contact lens seems to create optical vortices that interact so that the lens provides a clear image of objects at all distances 2416305-spiral-scratches-on-contact-lenses-can-turn-them-into-multifocals|2416305 Cyborg locusts with brain nanoparticles could act as bomb sniffers https://www.newscientist.com/article/2416090-cyborg-locusts-with-brain-nanoparticles-could-act-as-bomb-sniffers/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 08 Feb 2024 06:00:07 +0000 Researchers wanting to make use of locusts’ keen sense of smell to sniff out certain chemicals have found that injecting their brains with nanoparticles seems to make odour identification more reliable 2416090-cyborg-locusts-with-brain-nanoparticles-could-act-as-bomb-sniffers|2416090 Quantum computer uses a time crystal as a control dial https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415611-quantum-computer-uses-a-time-crystal-as-a-control-dial/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:34 +0000 Making a strange state of matter called a time crystal inside a quantum computer helped researchers stabilise a fragile quantum state inspired by Schrödinger’s cat 2415611-quantum-computer-uses-a-time-crystal-as-a-control-dial|2415611 World's biggest onshore wind turbine blades unveiled in China https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415985-worlds-biggest-onshore-wind-turbine-blades-unveiled-in-china/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 07 Feb 2024 10:00:56 +0000 A Chinese company is building wind turbines with 131-metre-long blades, the longest ever used in an onshore power plant 2415985-worlds-biggest-onshore-wind-turbine-blades-unveiled-in-china|2415985 See antique clockwork marvels from China's Forbidden City https://www.newscientist.com/video/2415523-see-antique-clockwork-marvels-from-chinas-forbidden-city/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 07 Feb 2024 00:00:28 +0000 These lavish zimingzhong clocks don't just represent time but serve as windows on a period of cutting-edge scientific innovation 2415523-see-antique-clockwork-marvels-from-chinas-forbidden-city|2415523 This robot can figure out how to open almost any door on its own https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415590-this-robot-can-figure-out-how-to-open-almost-any-door-on-its-own/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 06 Feb 2024 19:00:09 +0000 A robot that can learn to open most types of doors, cabinets, drawers and refrigerators – without human direction – may pave the way for your future robot butler 2415590-this-robot-can-figure-out-how-to-open-almost-any-door-on-its-own|2415590 Neuralink: What do brain implants do and why is Elon Musk making them? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414852-neuralink-what-do-brain-implants-do-and-why-is-elon-musk-making-them/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 30 Jan 2024 19:40:34 +0000 Elon Musk's Neuralink company is conducting its first human trials, implanting a tiny chip onto the surface of a person's brain to allow them to talk directly with computers 2414852-neuralink-what-do-brain-implants-do-and-why-is-elon-musk-making-them|2414852 AI chatbots tend to choose violence and nuclear strikes in wargames https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415488-ai-chatbots-tend-to-choose-violence-and-nuclear-strikes-in-wargames/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 02 Feb 2024 22:00:37 +0000 As the US military begins integrating AI technology, simulated wargames show how chatbots behave unpredictably and risk nuclear escalation 2415488-ai-chatbots-tend-to-choose-violence-and-nuclear-strikes-in-wargames|2415488 Artificial touch: The new tech making virtual reality more immersive https://www.newscientist.com/article/mg25333780-900-artificial-touch-the-new-tech-making-virtual-reality-more-immersive/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 16 Mar 2022 18:00:00 +0000 The feelings of touch and temperature are complex biological processes. Now everyday chemicals like menthol and capsaicin are being used to simulate them – and create more realistic VR experiences mg25333780-900-artificial-touch-the-new-tech-making-virtual-reality-more-immersive|2312252 Armies of bots battled on Twitter over Chinese spy balloon incident https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414259-armies-of-bots-battled-on-twitter-over-chinese-spy-balloon-incident/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 02 Feb 2024 14:00:36 +0000 Large proportions of users posting on Twitter – now X – about the Chinese balloon that drifted over the US and Canada in 2023 were bots attempting to shape the debate 2414259-armies-of-bots-battled-on-twitter-over-chinese-spy-balloon-incident|2414259 Ukraine will spoof GPS across the country to stop Russian drones https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415318-ukraine-will-spoof-gps-across-the-country-to-stop-russian-drones/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 02 Feb 2024 12:00:08 +0000 A nationwide electronic warfare system called Pokrova can disrupt satellite navigation – Ukraine may already be using it to prevent strikes by Russian drones and missiles, but doing so will also affect satnavs in the country 2415318-ukraine-will-spoof-gps-across-the-country-to-stop-russian-drones|2415318 Camouflage inspired by leaves can hide things in visible and infrared https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415236-camouflage-inspired-by-leaves-can-hide-things-in-visible-and-infrared/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:00:54 +0000 A layered material reflects infrared and visible light to mimic the appearance of leaves, and could be used to camouflage objects against foliage in forest settings 2415236-camouflage-inspired-by-leaves-can-hide-things-in-visible-and-infrared|2415236 US Congress grilled Big Tech leaders on child online safety https://www.newscientist.com/article/2415257-us-congress-grilled-big-tech-leaders-on-child-online-safety/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 31 Jan 2024 22:11:01 +0000 Executives from Meta, TikTok and X were questioned by US lawmakers about the safety of children who use their products – experts say the companies need to do more than just provide parental controls 2415257-us-congress-grilled-big-tech-leaders-on-child-online-safety|2415257 Smart hat senses when traffic lights change and tells you via an app https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414119-smart-hat-senses-when-traffic-lights-change-and-tells-you-via-an-app/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:00:55 +0000 Long-lasting hats, jumpers and watch straps that function as smart devices can be made thanks to a cheap and reliable method of creating conductive fibre that can be woven into fabric 2414119-smart-hat-senses-when-traffic-lights-change-and-tells-you-via-an-app|2414119 AI can better retain what it learns by mimicking human sleep https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414123-ai-can-better-retain-what-it-learns-by-mimicking-human-sleep/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 30 Jan 2024 09:00:51 +0000 An AI inspired by the way humans form long-term memories during sleep can learn to perform tasks better than existing models 2414123-ai-can-better-retain-what-it-learns-by-mimicking-human-sleep|2414123 Watch a robot with living muscles walk through water https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414165-watch-a-robot-with-living-muscles-walk-through-water/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 26 Jan 2024 16:00:49 +0000 A tiny, biohybrid robot moves by contracting lab-grown muscle tissue in its legs – but it needs help to stand up in a water tank and it tops out at just 5.4 millimetres per minute 2414165-watch-a-robot-with-living-muscles-walk-through-water|2414165 Silicon Valley’s top AI models are terrible at rebus wordplay puzzles https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414268-silicon-valleys-top-ai-models-are-terrible-at-rebus-wordplay-puzzles/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:00:29 +0000 Rebus puzzles provide wordplay challenges involving both images and text, and they can confound Silicon Valley’s most powerful AI models 2414268-silicon-valleys-top-ai-models-are-terrible-at-rebus-wordplay-puzzles|2414268 I'm teaching again after 20 years away. The tech is pure absurdity https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413529-im-teaching-again-after-20-years-away-the-tech-is-pure-absurdity/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 24 Jan 2024 18:00:00 +0000 Returning to university teaching after almost two decades, Annalee Newitz finds they have become the Rip Van Winkle of pedagogy and tries to get to grips with the terrible learning technology 2413529-im-teaching-again-after-20-years-away-the-tech-is-pure-absurdity|2413529 Wearable device monitors tumour size and displays it in an app https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413375-wearable-device-monitors-tumour-size-and-displays-it-in-an-app/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 24 Jan 2024 20:00:08 +0000 A wearable device that sticks to the skin can constantly measure the size of certain tumours and wirelessly transmit that information to a smartphone 2413375-wearable-device-monitors-tumour-size-and-displays-it-in-an-app|2413375 Robot avatar lets people see and feel things remotely through VR https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413726-robot-avatar-lets-people-see-and-feel-things-remotely-through-vr/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 24 Jan 2024 19:00:42 +0000 A person wearing a VR headset and haptic feedback gloves can control the iCub 3 robot and experience being somewhere else 2413726-robot-avatar-lets-people-see-and-feel-things-remotely-through-vr|2413726 Toxic mud from aluminium production can be used to make greener steel https://www.newscientist.com/article/2414057-toxic-mud-from-aluminium-production-can-be-used-to-make-greener-steel/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 24 Jan 2024 17:42:40 +0000 Producing steel generates huge amounts of CO2 emissions. These could be reduced with a technique that repurposes the hazardous red mud generated when refining aluminium 2414057-toxic-mud-from-aluminium-production-can-be-used-to-make-greener-steel|2414057 AI costs too much to automate vision-related jobs – for now https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413386-ai-costs-too-much-to-automate-vision-related-jobs-for-now/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Mon, 22 Jan 2024 14:00:11 +0000 Today’s AI computer vision costs are too steep for most US firms to consider replacing human workers with the technology. But that could change in the long run 2413386-ai-costs-too-much-to-automate-vision-related-jobs-for-now|2413386 What does Ukraine’s million-drone army mean for the future of war? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413260-what-does-ukraines-million-drone-army-mean-for-the-future-of-war/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:00:26 +0000 In 2024, Ukraine will have more drones than soldiers in its armed forces, and the aerial vehicles and the artificial intelligences that can control them are changing the way war is waged 2413260-what-does-ukraines-million-drone-army-mean-for-the-future-of-war|2413260 Watch a plant-inspired robot grow towards light like a vine https://www.newscientist.com/article/2413133-watch-a-plant-inspired-robot-grow-towards-light-like-a-vine/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 18 Jan 2024 17:10:43 +0000 FiloBot has a cylindrical body made of coiled plastic filament and can grow guided by light and gravity just like a plant 2413133-watch-a-plant-inspired-robot-grow-towards-light-like-a-vine|2413133 Could DARPA's enigmatic X-65 plane revolutionise aircraft design? https://www.newscientist.com/article/2411762-could-darpas-enigmatic-x-65-plane-revolutionise-aircraft-design/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Thu, 18 Jan 2024 11:00:26 +0000 The US military will test an aircraft that flies without mechanical control surfaces like flaps and rudders, potentially boosting stealth characteristics 2411762-could-darpas-enigmatic-x-65-plane-revolutionise-aircraft-design|2411762 Robotic dodecahedron searches the deep sea for new species https://www.newscientist.com/article/2412271-robotic-dodecahedron-searches-the-deep-sea-for-new-species/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 17 Jan 2024 19:00:16 +0000 A robotic dodecahedron that can collect tissue samples from deep-sea animals for later genetic analysis could speed up the identification of unknown species 2412271-robotic-dodecahedron-searches-the-deep-sea-for-new-species|2412271 DeepMind AI solves hard geometry problems from mathematics olympiad https://www.newscientist.com/article/2412739-deepmind-ai-solves-hard-geometry-problems-from-mathematics-olympiad/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:00:48 +0000 AlphaGeometry scores almost as well as the best students on geometry questions from the International Mathematical Olympiad 2412739-deepmind-ai-solves-hard-geometry-problems-from-mathematics-olympiad|2412739 Self-assembling DNA computer can sort simple images into categories https://www.newscientist.com/article/2412689-self-assembling-dna-computer-can-sort-simple-images-into-categories/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Wed, 17 Jan 2024 16:00:18 +0000 A conventional computer must be fully assembled before it can run, but an experimental DNA computer solves problems through the very act of putting itself together 2412689-self-assembling-dna-computer-can-sort-simple-images-into-categories|2412689 First 'thermodynamic computer' uses random noise to calculate https://www.newscientist.com/article/2412212-first-thermodynamic-computer-uses-random-noise-to-calculate/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=technology Tue, 16 Jan 2024 20:30:26 +0000 Random physical fluctuations – or noise – can be a source of errors for conventional computers, but for a prototype "thermodynamic computer" they can be harnessed to run calculations 2412212-first-thermodynamic-computer-uses-random-noise-to-calculate|2412212