Author: Laura Watling
Netflix has announced that it will now support streaming in HDR10+, adding to its current lineup of supported high dynamic range (HDR) formats, which already includes Dolby Vision and standard HDR10. This move aims to expand the accessibility of high-quality video streaming to a broader range of devices and users. HDR10+ is an advanced HDR format developed by Samsung, which offers dynamic metadata capabilities. Unlike standard HDR10, which uses static metadata to set brightness and contrast levels for an entire movie or show, HDR10+ adjusts these parameters on a scene-by-scene or even frame-by-frame basis. This results in improved image quality,…
In a groundbreaking development, Swedish startup IntuiCell has introduced a ‘digital nervous system’ that enables robots to learn through real-world experiences, mirroring human and animal learning processes. This innovation was demonstrated using a robot dog named Luna, showcasing the system’s ability to acquire skills, adapt to changes, and improve over time without prior training or simulations. IntuiCell’s CEO, Viktor Luthman, emphasised the uniqueness of this approach: “We’ve created the first software that enables any machine to learn like a human or animal – to solve new problems as they emerge and adapt to unforeseen changes in real time.” Unlike traditional…
In a significant advancement within the realm of artificial intelligence, Google has unveiled Gemini 2.0, an evolution of its AI capabilities, positioning itself competitively against industry counterparts such as OpenAI’s GPT-4. This development arrives amidst escalating antitrust scrutiny, underscoring Google’s commitment to innovation while navigating regulatory landscapes. Gemini 2.0: A Leap in AI Functionality Building upon its predecessor, Gemini 2.0 introduces enhanced multimodal capabilities, enabling seamless processing and generation of text, images, and audio. This iteration signifies a stride towards more integrated and versatile AI applications, facilitating more natural and dynamic interactions between users and technology. Integration of AI…
Nvidia has once again cemented its dominance in the AI hardware sector with the unveiling of its latest cutting-edge processor, the Blackwell Ultra AI chip. The announcement was made by CEO Jensen Huang during the company’s highly anticipated GTC 2025 event in San Jose, California. The Blackwell Ultra is set to revolutionise AI processing, boasting enhanced computational power, improved energy efficiency, and superior memory bandwidth, addressing the growing demand for advanced AI models. A New Era of AI Processing With artificial intelligence rapidly evolving, Nvidia has positioned itself at the forefront of this technological revolution. Jensen Huang described the Blackwell…
BYD’s Game-Changing EV Charging Technology: A New Era for Electric Vehicles Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer BYD has unveiled a groundbreaking charging technology capable of delivering 400 kilometres (approximately 249 miles) of range in just five minutes. This innovation positions BYD at the forefront of EV technology, offering charging speeds that rival the refuelling times of traditional petrol vehicles. Unprecedented Charging Speeds BYD’s new system, known as the “Super e-Platform,” operates at a peak rate of 1,000 kilowatts (kW), significantly surpassing current industry standards. For comparison, Tesla’s forthcoming V4 superchargers are expected to offer charging rates of up to 500…
Google’s FireSat Initiative: Revolutionising Early Wildfire Detection In a groundbreaking move to enhance early wildfire detection, Google, in collaboration with several partners, has launched the first satellite of the FireSat constellation. This initiative aims to identify wildfires in their nascent stages, potentially transforming wildfire management and mitigation strategies. Launch Details The inaugural FireSat satellite was successfully deployed from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-13 mission. Upon reaching orbit, the satellite promptly established communication with Earth, marking a significant milestone in the project’s progression. Technological Innovations FireSat is designed to detect wildfires as small as 5×5 metres—approximately…
Apple’s Next Big Move Apple is reportedly working on its thinnest iPhone yet, the iPhone 17 Air, which could redefine smartphone design. According to reports, this ultra-slim device was initially considered to be completely port-free, meaning no charging or data transfer ports, relying entirely on wireless solutions. However, Apple has reportedly decided to include a USB-C port due to regulatory concerns, particularly in the European Union (EU). A Bold, Futuristic Design Rumoured to launch in 2025, the iPhone 17 Air is expected to feature a 6.6-inch display, making it slightly larger than the standard iPhone models. However, what truly sets…
AI-Powered Cameras Crack Down on UK Drivers: The Future of Traffic Enforcement The UK has rolled out a new wave of AI-powered cameras designed to catch drivers violating traffic laws, with a particular focus on speeding, mobile phone use, and seatbelt compliance. These cutting-edge systems have already made a significant impact, leading to a surge in fines and penalties across the country. But how do they work, and what does this mean for motorists? AI and Automation Meet Law Enforcement The new AI-powered cameras use advanced image recognition and machine learning algorithms to identify traffic violations in real time. Unlike…
IBM has announced plans to develop the largest quantum computer to date, aiming to set a new qubit record in 2025. The company intends to link multiple smaller quantum processors into a single, modular system, surpassing current technological milestones and advancing the field of quantum computing. This innovation represents a significant leap for IBM, which unveiled its first commercial quantum computer six years ago, equipped with 20 quantum bits (qubits). Today, IBM’s most advanced chip, Condor, boasts 1,121 qubits. However, the typical user of IBM’s quantum computing services currently operates with around 100 qubits, highlighting the potential for growth and…
A bold move to revolutionise the fast-food industry, McDonald’s is integrating artificial intelligence (AI) across its 43,000 global restaurants. This technological overhaul aims to enhance customer experience, streamline operations, and reduce employee stress. AI-Driven Enhancements: Addressing Employee Stress: Recognising the high-pressure environment of fast-food service, McDonald’s aims to alleviate employee stress through technological solutions. By automating routine tasks and providing predictive maintenance alerts, staff can focus more on customer interaction, leading to a more pleasant work atmosphere. Future Prospects: McDonald’s is also exploring the development of a “generative AI virtual manager” to handle administrative tasks, further streamlining operations and…