undefined 3, 2024
Volvo EX90 first drive: a glimpse of what's to come
Volvo’s electric EX90 SUV, though delayed by a year, showcases cutting-edge technology with up to 310 miles of range, 510 horsepower, and a sleek, minimalist design. The vehicle features a touchscreen-based control system, powered by Google’s Android Automotive platform, with digital key functionality being refined. It also includes advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lidar for future hands-free driving. While some tech features are still evolving, the EX90 presents a strong offering in the luxury EV market, with ongoing improvements.
Solar will get too cheap to connect to the power grid
The cost of solar panels is falling rapidly, flooding the power grid with cheap electricity. Solar will continue to get cheaper due to its simplicity and mass manufacturing, with installation rates skyrocketing. However, solar power will eventually saturate the grid because it all generates at the same time, driving prices down. To manage excess solar, we'll use storage solutions, like batteries, and dedicate solar to off-grid intermittent processes, such as producing green hydrogen and synthetic fuels. This approach could revolutionize energy use by leveraging low-cost, intermittent solar power.
X ordered to be taken down by judge in Brazil over dispute with Elon Musk
Elon Musk, owner of social media platform X (formerly Twitter), is in a public feud with Brazilian Supreme Court judge Alexandre de Moraes, who ordered X to be taken down in Brazil after Musk failed to appoint a legal representative there. The judge also fined X 18.5m reais and imposed penalties for using VPNs to access the platform. Musk criticized Brazil's government, calling it "oppressive." The dispute stems from X not complying with orders to block accounts spreading fake news. X claims the judge's actions amount to censorship, while supporters say they're lawful and protect democracy.
No screens before age of two, Swedish health authority tells parents
Sweden's health authorities recommend no screen time for children under two, up to one hour for ages 2-5, two hours for ages 6-12, and a maximum of three hours for teenagers. The guidelines, Sweden's first on regulating children's screen time, aim to combat negative health effects like poor sleep and depression linked to excessive screen use. They advise avoiding screens before bedtime and keeping them out of bedrooms. Parents are encouraged to set examples and discuss screen use with children. Similar initiatives are underway in France, including school trials banning phones for students under 15.
Sleep on it: How the brain processes many experiences, even when ‘offline’
A new Yale study reveals that the brain's hippocampus can process and consolidate up to 15 different experiences into memories during sleep by bundling them into sub-second events, or "frames." This generative coding ability allows for parallel processing and avoids interference between new and old memories, explaining how humans manage to remember numerous experiences. Researchers found that during sleep, the brain can "flicker" between compressed representations of distinct experiences, which boosts memory capacity and efficiency. This study highlights the brain's complex ability to store and manage multiple experiences simultaneously.
‘Strange noises’ heard coming from troubled Boeing Starliner spacecraft
NASA says the "strange" noises from Boeing's Starliner spacecraft do not endanger the crew. Astronaut Butch Wilmore reported the eerie pulsing sounds, which have now stopped. The issue was traced to the audio system linking Starliner to the ISS, and NASA noted that such noise and feedback are common. Despite previous Starliner problems, the craft will return to Earth unmanned, with astronauts waiting for a SpaceX mission in February.
Striking images reveal depths of Titanic's slow decay
A recent expedition to the Titanic wreck has revealed significant decay, including the loss of a 4.5m section of the iconic bow railing, made famous by the film *Titanic*. The railing, now on the sea floor, was discovered missing during dives by underwater robots this summer. The Titanic, which sank in 1912, continues to deteriorate due to metal-eating microbes. The expedition also rediscovered a bronze statue, *Diana of Versailles*, thought lost since 1986. Plans are underway to recover more artifacts, despite ongoing debates over disturbing the wreck site.
CrowdStrike faces onslaught of legal action from faulty software update
Following a problematic software update that disrupted companies worldwide, including Delta, lawsuits have emerged against CrowdStrike. Delta is suing for up to $500 million, represented by high-profile lawyer David Boies. A class action by shareholders claims CrowdStrike misled them about its software update protocols. The company is defended by Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan. Legal expert Rob Wilkins notes that contractual damage limits might protect CrowdStrike unless gross negligence is proven, which could void these caps. Future class actions and insurance claims could complicate matters further.
After a decade of free Alexa, Amazon now wants you to pay
Amazon is set to launch a paid version of Alexa for up to $10 a month, offering enhanced features like tailored recipe suggestions and AI news summaries. Current Alexa users can still use the free version. This marks a shift as Amazon has never charged for Alexa before. With the rise of tech subscriptions—like ChatGPT’s $20/month plan—Amazon's move reflects a broader trend of monetizing AI advancements. The success of this paid Alexa will depend on whether users find the upgraded features worth the extra cost.
Source: interestingengineering
Celebrity ‘Russian spy’ beluga whale found dead in Norway after stirring rumors
Beluga whale Hvaldimir, who intrigued the world with his suspected Russian ties, has been found dead in southern Norway. Discovered in Risavika Bay, his death ends a saga that began in 2019 with a harness marked "Equipment St Petersburg," hinting at military training. Hvaldimir, known for his friendly behavior and interaction with humans, was last seen in good condition before his body was found. The cause of death remains unclear, leaving a poignant end to his captivating story.
The Art of Finishing
On a quiet Saturday, I faced the challenge of choosing which unfinished coding project to tackle. My directory was cluttered with half-done ideas, each presenting new challenges. Hours of refactoring and debugging left me frustrated with minimal progress. This cycle of enthusiasm and dissatisfaction often comes from the allure of new possibilities and the fear of finality. Completing projects, despite imperfections, provides unique satisfaction and essential learning, making it crucial to break the cycle and embrace finishing.
AI-enhanced next-gen smart glasses could revolutionize wearables
Despite the 2014 Google Glass flop, smart glasses are gearing up for a comeback. Meta and Google are investing in new models that blend fashion, functionality, and generative AI. These glasses promise real-time information and seamless integration with daily life, transforming them from gadgets to essential tools. Advances in AI, design, and collaboration with brands like Ray-Ban are making smart glasses more appealing. Analysts expect Apple to eventually join this trend, signaling a future where smart glasses become a significant part of our tech ecosystem.
The next 4K tiny drone from DJI fits in the palm of your hand
DJI's rumored new drone, the DJI Neo, might be the tiniest, most affordable option yet. Leaks suggest it could cost around $228 in Europe, or $329 in the U.S., and offer 4K recording with a design similar to the DJI Avata 2. Weighing just 136 grams, the Neo is lightweight and user-friendly, starting from your hand and featuring a face scan unlock. However, it may lack advanced obstacle avoidance, making it best for outdoor use. Expect this compact drone to hit the market around September 5.
‘Hospital at home’ startup Doccla raises $46 million for its European expansion
Doccla, a startup specializing in “virtual bed” technology, is tackling hospital bed shortages by allowing remote patient management. After gaining traction in the U.K. and Ireland, it has secured £35 million ($46 million) in Series B funding led by Lakestar to expand across Europe. Doccla’s system involves monitoring devices and an app that feed data into electronic health records, aiding doctors with alerts for critical readings. The company plans to enter new markets like Germany, Austria, and France, and supports virtual clinical trials for pharmaceutical firms.
Hotel key cards are being replaced by digital options like Apple, Google wallets
Many hotels are transitioning from plastic key cards to digital options via Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. This shift, accelerated by touchless trends and cybersecurity concerns, aims to enhance convenience and security. While major chains like Hilton are adopting digital keys, experts note that digital systems introduce new security challenges and costs. Despite the benefits of ease and quick updates, plastic cards aren't obsolete yet. They remain favored by some guests for their simplicity and reliability, though digital keys are gaining traction for their convenience.
These states have the most UFO sightings
UFOs are generating buzz nationwide in the US, and the state with the most sightings is California, with 16,444 reports since 1995, according to the National UFO Reporting Center. Florida, Washington, and Texas follow with 8,408, 7,297, and 6,288 sightings, respectively. North Dakota and Washington D.C. lag behind with 278 and 156 sightings. California’s high number of sightings is likely due to its large population and numerous Air Force bases. For those who spot a UFO, the Center offers a 24-hour hotline at 206-722-3000 for reports.
Coinbase CEO’s demonstration of first AI-to-AI crypto transaction
Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong recently highlighted the first AI-to-AI token transaction, marking a leap in AI and Web3 integration. Using Coinbase’s MPC Wallets, which enable AI protocols to hold crypto wallets, two AI agents exchanged tokens. Armstrong emphasized that while AI agents can’t have bank accounts, they can use crypto wallets for transactions, making them instant, global, and free. This development aims to enable AI to handle financial tasks and complex operations. A video of the transaction is available on GitHub for developers.
I learned computer programming in my 50s, here’s what I discovered
In 2017, I realized code was mediating my life and wondered if it was the problem itself. Initially, I struggled with JavaScript's complexity but found solace in Python's simplicity and community. Python’s clear syntax and collaborative spirit, revealed at the PyCon conference, showed coding could be more human-centric and adaptable. This journey highlighted that while coding is complex, it can also be elegant and aligned with human values.
Binance staffer detained in Nigeria seeks bail on health grounds
Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, detained in Nigeria since February, applied for bail on medical grounds, citing deteriorating health, including a herniated disc and malaria. His previous bail request was denied in May. Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, faces charges of laundering over $35 million, alongside Binance and the exchange’s regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission opposed the bail, arguing his condition isn’t new. The case continues Wednesday.
How to choose the right laptop: a step-by-step guide
Choosing a laptop can be confusing. Start by picking an OS: **Windows** for flexibility, **macOS** for MacBooks, **Chrome OS** for budget-friendly options, or **Linux** for customization. Then, choose a processor: **Intel** (Core i3 to i9), **AMD** (Ryzen 3 to 9), **ARM** (Snapdragon X for newer models), or **Apple** (M1 to M3). Each has different performance and features. For more details on other components like RAM and storage, check this full updated guide.
