Science and Technology

Custard powder, a cherished ingredient for making smooth desserts, isn't usually seen as hazardous. Its gentle and sugary nature doesn't reveal its latent power. Yet, when circumstances are just right, this everyday cooking item can turn unexpectedly volatile. Though it might seem overstated, this occurrence is based on clear scientific concepts related to powdered materials and their flammability.Custard powder initially appears innocent—a delicate, yellow powder that transforms milk and sugar into a soothing treat. However, this seemingly benign ingredient has a surprising aspect. Similar to various powdered substances, custard powder can catch fire and even detonate when dispersed into the…

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City has partnered with Google for a groundbreaking pilot program focused on enhancing the reliability of its old subway network. Utilizing Google’s mobile technology, the effort aims to detect and resolve rail problems before they cause service interruptions. Named "TrackInspect," the project signifies a considerable advancement in applying artificial intelligence and contemporary technology to public transportation.The Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) in New York City has teamed up with Google in an innovative pilot project aimed at improving the reliability of its aging subway system. By leveraging Google’s smartphone technology, the initiative seeks…

In the current digital era, where social media channels provide a main avenue for personal expression, employees might question how their online actions could affect their careers. While individuals typically experience a sense of liberty when sharing on platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, or LinkedIn, it is crucial to recognize that their online conduct can result in serious outcomes, including possible job loss. Legal and employment professionals highlight the necessity of being aware of company policies and the protections—or their absence—that apply to workers.In today’s digital age, where social media platforms serve as a key outlet for personal expression, employees…

YouTube, the biggest platform for video sharing worldwide, marks its 20th anniversary this year. Starting in 2005 as a place for amateur video makers, it's transformed into a global powerhouse, now competing with traditional entertainment industries. Currently, YouTube positions itself as the “new Hollywood,” with professional content makers and influencers attracting huge audiences, often overshadowing film studios and television networks. For instance, in 2024, the platform’s top creator, MrBeast, garnered 762 million views on one video—almost equivalent to the total number of cinema tickets sold across the US and Canada in that year.YouTube, the world’s largest video-sharing platform, is celebrating…

Neuralink, the brain technology startup founded by Elon Musk, announced that it has received approval to launch a new feasibility study using its experimental brain implant and robotic arm technology. This initiative, called FIRST studywill evaluate the safety and functionality of the company's wireless brain-computer interface (BCI) and its surgical robot. The study is specifically aimed at helping people with tetraplegia-a severe form of paralysis: controls external devices using only their thoughts. The announcement was made via Neuralink's social media channels, where the company described the study as a significant step toward advancing its technology. “This is the first step…

Japanese automakers Nissan Motor and Honda Motor are reportedly in discussions regarding a potential merger The Nikkei newspaper. The move, which could reshape the global automotive landscape, aims to improve their ability to compete in an industry that is rapidly shifting towards electric vehicles, autonomous technology and intensifying competition from Chinese automakers and Tesla . The report suggests that the two companies are considering operating under a holding company, with plans to formalize their intentions through a memorandum of understanding in the near future. Additionally, the potential merger could bring Mitsubishi Motors, in which Nissan holds a 24% stake, under…

TikTok has formally asked the U.S. Supreme Court to review a federal appeals court decision that upheld legislation potentially banning the app in the United States. The controversial law, backed by President Joe Biden's administration, requires the popular social media platform to sever ties with its China-based parent company, ByteDance, or face a nationwide ban. The legal documents, filed Monday, come on the heels of a ruling by a three-judge panel of the same appeals court. Last week the committee sided with the government, saying the law requiring TikTok's divestment from ByteDance is constitutional. According to the document, if the…

Apple has launched a significant free software update, iOS 18, which introduces artificial intelligence features to its iPhone 16 series. This update comes shortly after the release of the new iPhone models, which are priced between $800 and $1,200 and are equipped with the necessary hardware to support these advanced AI functions. In addition to the iPhone 16 models, last year's premium offerings, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, also feature processors that will enable AI technology once the iOS 18 update is installed. Additionally, recent iPad and Mac models can benefit from the same software improvements.…

In a decisive move to strengthen national security, President Joe Biden has ordered the Pentagon and US intelligence agencies to accelerate the adoption of artificial intelligence. This initiative, outlined in a national security memorandum, aims to position the United States as a leader in artificial intelligence technology while safeguarding against potential threats from adversaries such as China. The memorandum highlights artificial intelligence as a transformative technology, establishing guidelines intended to prevent its misuse against civil liberties or human rights. A senior administration official, speaking anonymously, stressed the importance of aligning the implementation of artificial intelligence with American values. The official…

The collaborative relationship between Microsoft and OpenAI, once hailed as a tech power couple, is showing signs of strain. Despite a substantial $13 billion investment from Microsoft, OpenAI's ambitious AI projects and rising operational costs have put a strain on the partnership. The AI ​​landscape is evolving rapidly, and both companies are navigating the complexities of this dynamic field while seeking to maintain a competitive advantage. OpenAI's projected loss of $5 billion this year highlights the immense financial demands of developing and deploying cutting-edge AI systems. The company's pursuit of increasingly sophisticated models requires vast computational resources, pushing the limits…