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Preparing for a warming world will take a new information revolution

Preparing for a warming world will take a new information revolution

7 July 2021

The heat wave engulfing parts of North America may yet jump-start a technological revolution to help us be better prepared for extreme weather in the future, writes Annalee Newitz


These streets aren't made for walking: Why sidewalks need a rethink

These streets aren't made for walking: Why sidewalks need a rethink

7 July 2021

Pavements date back some 2000 years, but are seldom built with pedestrians in mind. Here's why reinvented sidewalks could benefit your joints — and the planet


Can a robot ever be conscious and how would we know if it were?

Can a robot ever be conscious and how would we know if it were?

7 July 2021

Some people think we could easily build and identify a conscious robot, while others insist that it’s impossible – it all depends on what you think consciousness is.


Streamlined JPEG XL images could cut global data use by 30 per cent

Streamlined JPEG XL images could cut global data use by 30 per cent

2 July 2021

An updated version of the ubiquitous JPEG image format used across the internet could bring global bandwidth savings of 30 per cent, say the creators of JPEG XL, who have made the technology royalty-free


Lock and wire

Are we seeing an end to 'surveillance capitalism' on the internet?

2 July 2021

Some of the world's largest technology companies are starting to offer a new type of privacy on their platforms. It will appease some customers' concerns around online advertising, but shouldn't be to the detriment of the companies


Israel used world's first AI-guided combat drone swarm in Gaza attacks

Israel used world's first AI-guided combat drone swarm in Gaza attacks

30 June 2021

During operations in Gaza in mid-May, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) used a swarm of small drones to locate, identify and attack Hamas militants. This is thought to be the first time a drone swarm has been used in combat


Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart review: A fun romp across the multiverse

Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart review: A fun romp across the multiverse

26 June 2021

Amazing visuals, cinematic techniques, and inventive weapons - Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is perfectly timed to take full advantage of the PS5 console, says Jacob Aron


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