Category: Emerging Technologies

• Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa cancels SpaceX Moon flight due to indefinite delays in Starship development
• Maezawa had planned to take eight artists on the flight called dearMoon, but uncertainty around Starship launch date led to cancellation
• Crew members, including DJ Steve Aoki and filmmaker Brendan Hall, were left waiting as flight postponed indefinitely
• SpaceX’s focus on government contracts and Maezawa’s decreased net worth are potential reasons for project cancellation
• Maezawa, who has already been to space once, rode a Russian Soyuz rocket to the International Space Station in 2021

https://www.theverge.com/2024/6/2/24169972/spacex-starship-billionaire-lunar-flight-dearmoon-canceled-delays-yusaku-maezawa…

• Players speculate on significant patch or DLC in Starfield behind the scenes
• Changes in Steam files suggest something big happening at Bethesda
• Increase in updates on SteamDB hints at upcoming expansion and update for Starfield
• Speculation about Shattered Space expansion and June update at Xbox Showcase
• Recent live update for Starfield includes surface map overhaul and new 60fps target mode, with teaser for land vehicles

https://www.eurogamer.net/starfield-has-something-big-going-on-behind-the-scenes…

• Male contraceptive gel research: A daily contraceptive gel for men containing Nestorone and testosterone, applied to the shoulders, has shown promise in lowering sperm counts in around eight weeks.
• Faster effectiveness: The gel reached low sperm levels in 80% of men after 12 weeks, with more than half reaching contraception-level effectiveness in just eight weeks, quicker than other experimental male contraceptives.
• Methodology and safety: The gel is applied to the shoulders to ensure ease of use and minimal contact with others. Accidental exposure could cause adverse effects like premature puberty in children and acne or excessive hair growth in women.
• Study results and implications: The trial participants had their sperm count measured every four weeks, with potential for even greater effectiveness between four and eight weeks. The faster suppression of sperm output makes the gel more attractive and acceptable to potential users.
• Future developments: The male contraceptive gel research aims to share the responsibility of contraception between men and women, potentially leading to additional scientific discoveries in contraceptive products for men. A non-hormonal male contraceptive drug, YCT-529, is also in development to deactivate a protein inhibiting sperm production without using testosterone.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/2024/06/02/contraceptive-gel-for-men-developed-by-researchers/…

• Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa canceled his lunar flight on SpaceX’s Starship due to developmental delays and personal financial changes
• The dearMoon project, aiming for a private circumlunar flight, was abruptly called off, disappointing supporters
• Maezawa’s initial seriousness about the project waned over time, with SpaceX’s focus shifting to other priorities like the Artemis Program
• SpaceX’s Starship faced delays in its development, with the dearMoon mission pushed back to at least the early 2030s
• The cancellation allows SpaceX to focus on operational goals like launching Starlink satellites and preparing for human spaceflights

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/06/heres-why-a-japanese-billionaire-just-canceled-his-lunar-flight-on-starship/…

• SpaceX is planning to launch its Starlink direct-to-cellular service in Fall 2024, as mentioned in a filing to the FCC.
• The filing highlights SpaceX’s support for the FCC’s flexible regulatory framework for supplemental coverage from space.
• Starlink’s direct-to-cell system will offer text, voice, and web browsing initially, with potential for more advanced features in the future.
• SpaceX expressed concerns about the FCC’s current framework for satellite-to-phone connectivity, urging a reconsideration of radio frequency limits.
• The company emphasized the importance of providing robust coverage, especially during emergencies, through its direct-to-cellular service.

https://www.teslarati.com/spacex-starlink-commercial-direct-to-cellular-service-fall-2024-launch/…

• Backrooms location mystery solved: The original Backrooms location, which sparked the trend, has been discovered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin at 811 Oregon Street, a site where the HobbyTown store’s Revolution Raceway RC car racetrack still exists today.
• Internet detectives find clues: A team of Discord detectives used The Wayback Machine to uncover a 2003 blog post about the racetrack renovation, leading to the identification of the Backrooms location.
• Anticlimactic discovery: The location was revealed in a 2019 tweet, indicating that the answer was always available online, making the search somewhat anticlimactic.
• Historical context revealed: Further investigation unveiled a 1977 photo of the location when it was Rohner’s Furniture store, adding historical context to the Backrooms’ origins.
• Impact on enthusiasts and developers: The solved mystery provides a new pilgrimage site for creepypasta enthusiasts and inspires horror game developers to consider using an abandoned RC car racetrack as a setting for their next game.

https://80.lv/articles/the-internet-finds-the-original-backrooms-location/…

• Google and Magic Leap have entered a “multi-faceted strategic technology partnership” for XR headsets.
• Magic Leap is known for its expertise in optics and manufacturing, producing high-quality eyepieces.
• Both Google and Magic Leap have shown interest in augmented reality glasses, with Google showcasing a prototype at Google I/O.
• Tech companies like Apple and Meta are exploring lightweight glasses with various features, facing challenges in developing optical components.
• Google’s partnerships with Magic Leap, Samsung, and Qualcomm indicate a focus on advancing smart glasses technology, with potential releases in the future.

https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/30/24167283/google-magic-leap-deal-optics-manufacturing…

• Magic Leap and Google have formed a strategic technology partnership to combine Magic Leap’s optics and manufacturing expertise with Google’s technology platforms.
• Google was an initial investor in Magic Leap, leading a significant funding round in 2014, and its CEO, Sundar Pichai, was on Magic Leap’s board until 2018.
• Magic Leap was in talks with Meta for an IP licensing and manufacturing deal for mainstream AR products, but the partnership with Google suggests a different direction.
• Magic Leap focuses on transparent AR optics, differentiating itself from competitors like Meta and Apple, which use camera-based approaches.
• The partnership with Google could potentially allow Magic Leap to re-enter the consumer market by leveraging Google’s services such as Chrome, Maps, and AI technologies.

https://www.uploadvr.com/magic-leap-google-partnership/…

• Longevity habit change importance: Valter Longo, a longevity researcher, emphasizes the significance of diet in achieving a longer life.
• Longo recommends a fasting-mimicking diet with a 12-hour daily fasting window for better health outcomes.
• He follows a Mediterranean diet and eats within a specific time frame each day to promote longevity.
• While acknowledging the benefits of a larger lunch and smaller dinner, Longo opts for a big dinner due to his schedule.
• Longo believes that the impact of eating a large dinner at a later time is minor in the broader context of longevity habits.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/29/italian-longevity-expert-1-habit-i-wont-change-even-for-a-longer-life.html…

• AI technology could offer companionship to combat loneliness, potentially breaking the cycle of social disconnection and improving social skills.
• Loneliness has been linked to serious health issues, with millions of people experiencing chronic loneliness globally.
• Robotics expert Tony Prescott argues that AI companionship could provide stimulating and personalized social interaction to support individuals.
• Prescott highlights the need for regulation to prevent excessive dependence on AI companions.
• The book “The Psychology of Artificial Intelligence” explores the potential of AI in understanding human intelligence and the implications of living alongside AI.

https://neurosciencenews.com/ai-companions-loneliness-26179/…

• NASA has invested in a 3D-printable superalloy, GRX-810, as part of its Technology Transfer Program for sustainable aviation and space exploration.
• The superalloy, developed by NASA researchers Tim Smith and Christopher Kantzos, can withstand extreme conditions like high temperatures and stress, with double resistance to oxidation damage.
• GRX-810 is licensed to four American companies, including Carpenter Technology Corporation and Elementum 3D, for commercial production of airplane and spacecraft parts.
• The alloy’s adoption is expected to lead to more sustainable aviation and space exploration by improving fuel efficiency and lowering operating costs.
• NASA’s investment in this superalloy is aimed at benefiting the U.S. economy through commercial dividends and technology transfer to industry partners.

https://www.space.com/us-economy-nasa-3d-printed-superalloy…

• Brain implant surgery process involves placing electrode arrays on the brain’s surface to detect signals for external technologies
• Dr. Joshua Bederson, a neurosurgeon at Mount Sinai Hospital, set a record by placing 4,096 electrodes on a patient’s brain during a meningioma resection surgery
• Precision Neuroscience’s BCI system aims to help patients with severe paralysis restore functions like speech and movement
• Bederson’s surgery marked the 14th time Precision had placed its array on a human patient’s brain, with ongoing clinical studies at Mount Sinai
• Precision is working towards FDA approval for its wired system and plans to implant “a few dozen” patients by the end of the year for data collection.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/25/neuralink-competitor-precision-neuroscience-is-testing-its-brain-implant-in-humans.html…

• Another patient will get Neuralink’s brain implant as the company moves forward with a second procedure after the first successful implant in Noland Arbaugh
• Elon Musk announced that Neuralink is accepting applications for the second participant in the trial targeting individuals with conditions like quadriplegia
• Neuralink has addressed issues with the implant malfunction by planning to place the threads deeper into the patient’s brain in the second surgery
• More than 1,000 people have signed up for a chance to participate in the Neuralink trial, with the company aiming to complete the second surgery in June
• Other tech news includes Scarlett Johansson accusing OpenAI, Meta’s advertising policies, and Microsoft unveiling Copilot+ PCs at a Surface event

https://www.engadget.com/another-patient-will-get-neuralinks-brain-implant-235059248.html…

• Frog army hatching story: A man hatches over 2 million frog eggs in his backyard pond, creating a frog army.
• YouTube channel showcases hatching process of pet frogs and release of frog army into the neighborhood.
• Neighborhood faces hopping obstacles as frogs roam freely, causing a dream for kids and a nightmare for adults.
• Bizarre nature video shows a decapitated wasp flying away with its own head, leaving a lasting impression.
• Internet access may improve mental health, contrary to common belief, according to a study reported by Nature.

https://boingboing.net/2024/05/19/man-who-hatched-more-than-2-million-frog-eggs-unleashes-frog-army.html…

• Blue meteor lights Spain and Portugal, stunning netizens with breathtaking videos shared on social media
• Videos show a giant blue shiny object darting through the night sky for hundreds of kilometers
• Reports suggest the meteor may have fallen near the town of Castro Daire or Pinheiro
• NASA explains that meteoroids entering Earth’s atmosphere create fireballs or shooting stars
• Users express awe and excitement over the rare and mesmerizing sight captured in the footage

https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/videos-of-breathtaking-blue-meteor-lighting-up-skies-over-spain-portugal-stun-netizens-watch-101716096946884.html…

• Viral videos depict a meteorite crossing the skies of Spain and Portugal, sparking internet frenzy
• Social media users share images and videos of the bright blue light caused by the meteorite, with diverse reactions
• Speculation arises regarding the composition and origin of the meteorite, with users expressing amazement and astonishment
• Incident prompts concern about potential damage, with authorities mobilizing to the scene in preparation
• Despite lack of official confirmation, the event generates significant interest on social media, with numerous videos and photos shared online

https://www.livemint.com/news/trends/viral-video-show-meteorite-crossing-portugal-and-spain-internet-goes-crazy-pinheir-meteorite-shower-images-11716085903743.html…

• Argentinian couple, Natalia and Juan Lovato, moved to Ohio from Guatemala for their son Ciro to join a gene therapy trial for Canavan disease
• Canavan disease is a rare genetic disorder causing progressive brain atrophy and affecting fewer than 50,000 children in the US
• Gene therapy trial in Ohio involves introducing a modified virus to deliver DNA into brain cells to improve myelin function
• Children with Canavan disease typically have a life expectancy of about 10 years, but gene therapy trials have shown encouraging results in stabilizing health
• Challenges include the high cost of gene therapy, selective trial eligibility criteria, and the need for ongoing physical therapy to complement the treatment

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/article/2024/may/18/argentina-toddler-canavan-disease-trial…

• Google is enhancing accessibility for people with low vision by introducing a new feature to help find objects using their phone
• Android’s Lookout tool is being upgraded with AI to search for specific objects in various categories
• Look to Speak app is getting a text-free mode to aid communication for those with cognitive differences
• Project Gameface is expanding to Android, allowing control of a computer cursor through head movements and facial gestures
• Google Maps is improving accessibility features, including support for Auracast-enabled Bluetooth devices and detailed voice guidance for walking directions

https://www.theverge.com/2024/5/16/24158453/google-accessibility-features-android-low-vision…

• Noland Arbaugh, the first Neuralink patient, experienced a glitch in the device implanted in his brain, causing the threads to retract over time.
• Arbaugh initially achieved remarkable results with the brain-computer interface, learning to control a cursor with his mind and engaging in activities like playing video games.
• Neuralink identified the issue and adjusted the algorithm to improve data throughput from the implant, allowing Arbaugh to continue using the device.
• Arbaugh is optimistic about the potential of the technology, hoping to inspire others in similar situations by participating in the trial and demonstrating the device’s capabilities.
• Despite the setback, Arbaugh plans to keep the implant for a year to assess its safety and eagerly anticipates upgrading to future versions of the Neuralink device.

https://futurism.com/neoscope/first-neuralink-patient-alarmed-device-starts-glitching…

• Google I/O 2024 focused on AI integration across Google apps and services
• Introduction of Gemini 1.5 Flash, a new AI model optimized for speed and efficiency
• Project Astra showcased as a universal AI-powered assistant for everyday tasks
• Google Photos enhanced with AI capabilities for complex queries and media creation engines Veo and Imagen 3
• Significant updates to Google Search functionality, integration of Gemini into Android, and various AI-powered features announced

https://www.engadget.com/everything-announced-at-google-io-2024-including-gemini-ai-project-astra-android-15-and-more-210414580.html…

• Northern Lights Sunday photography: The Northern Lights may be visible again on Sunday, offering a chance for stunning photography
• Use a tripod and remote trigger for steady shots to capture the Northern Lights without blur
• Opt for the widest-angle lens possible to capture the full sky when using a camera
• Hold your phone sideways to capture all colors at the edges of the auroras, and adjust settings for low-light photography
• Set your camera to the highest ISO value possible for optimal Northern Lights photography

https://www.kare11.com/article/weather/how-to-photograph-northern-lights-minnesota-wisconsin/89-07e7bce5-7db3-42ff-aa21-632e9f6267af…

• Space metals investment opportunities are emerging as companies aim to mine asteroids for precious resources like platinum and cobalt.
• Asteroids contain valuable metals that can be used in electronics and electric vehicle batteries, potentially offering a more concentrated and sustainable source compared to Earth.
• The interest in space mining has surged in recent years, with a focus on the Moon as nations plan to establish outposts and require supplies for future missions.
• Companies like AstroForge, TransAstra, and Karman+ are receiving significant venture-capital funding to develop technology for asteroid mining.
• Asteroid Mining Corporation Ltd. is prioritizing terrestrial applications to generate immediate revenue before venturing into space mining, with a focus on developing space robots for exploration.

https://arstechnica.com/science/2024/05/in-the-race-for-space-metals-companies-hope-to-cash-in/…

• A new innovation in EV batteries may significantly increase longevity
• The innovation involves a new material structure allowing for capacitors with 19 times the energy density
• Capacitors in electric vehicles can store energy for longer periods with reduced energy dissipation
• The capacitors do not lose power quickly, making them more useful in the long term
• The discovery, if scaled up, could revolutionize the EV industry, similar to faster charging batteries

https://bgr.com/tech/new-innovation-may-help-ev-batteries-last-significantly-longer/…

• Northern Lights live stream: Severe Geomagnetic Storm Watch may offer Northern Lights viewing in the U.S.
• Filming the Aurora Borealis requires specific exposure settings for real-time capture.
• Equipment recommendations for successful real-time filming of the Northern Lights.
• Tips for recording Northern Lights videos using a smartphone camera.
• Recommendations for editing and improving smartphone footage of the Northern Lights.

https://www.fox13seattle.com/news/how-to-record-the-us-northern-lights-in-real-time-on-a-smartphone…

• Neuralink brain implant allows patient to play Slay the Spire and other games by translating neural signals
• Neuralink’s first human patient, quadriplegic Noland Arbaugh, received the N1 brain chip implant
• The implant’s electrode-bearing threads retracted from the brain causing temporary drop in performance
• Noland Arbaugh sets world record for BCI cursor control at 8.0 bits-per-second
• Neuralink aims to enhance cursor control, combat cursor drift, and enable control of physical aides like robotic arms

https://www.ign.com/articles/100-days-later-neuralinks-first-human-patient-is-now-using-his-brain-implant-to-play-slay-the-spire…

• Neuralink experienced a setback with its brain implant design, leading to mechanical issues.
• The device malfunctioned shortly after being installed in a quadriplegic participant.
• The implant consists of a puck with threads containing electrodes that are meant to collect signals from the brain.
• Threads from the implant retracted, reducing the data transfer rate and affecting cursor control.
• Despite setbacks, Neuralink showcased the device in a livestream, demonstrating its potential benefits for paralyzed individuals.

https://www.wired.com/story/neuralinks-brain-implant-issues/…

• Neuralink’s first human brain chip experiences malfunction with dislodged neuron-surveilling threads
• Unclear cause of thread retraction and potential safety risks
• Company compensates for lost data by modifying algorithm
• Implant includes 64 flexible threads with 1,024 electrodes for neuronal activity detection
• Neuralink aims to resolve issues, reports improved BPS rates and plans for more implantations

https://arstechnica.com/science/2024/05/elon-musks-neuralink-reports-trouble-with-first-human-brain-chip/…

• Neuralink implant detachment risk: Threads connecting chip to brain retracted, decreasing functionality
• Patient Noland Arbaugh experienced implant detachment, but functionality was restored by engineers
• Despite setback, Arbaugh could still use implant to play chess using his thoughts
• Neuralink’s experimental brain-chip technology faces scrutiny after detachment incident
• Company faced investigations for quality control issues in animal testing labs before human implant

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/may/09/neuralink-brain-chip-implant…

• Animal scavenger hunt tips: Animal Well is a unique 2D exploration game with no combat, featuring gear like a bubble wand for traversal.
• The game offers intricate puzzles and mysteries that can take weeks or months to solve, with a postgame that appeals to puzzle-solvers and scavenger-hunters.
• Players can choose to solve the game’s mysteries with friends without online help, akin to the early days of Zelda.
• The lush pixel art, eerie score, and intricate game design make Animal Well a captivating experience for fans of Fez, Tunic, and Outer Wilds.
• Released on Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, and Windows PC, Animal Well provides a challenging yet satisfying gameplay experience that encourages exploration and discovery.

https://www.polygon.com/reviews/24151337/animal-well-review-pc-ps5-switch…

• Regulation for digital recreations is urgently needed due to the potential psychological harm and ethical concerns surrounding “deadbots”
• Digital recreations of deceased individuals through AI technology could be marketed to create interactive legacies or help those dealing with loss
• Concerns include the disrespect of the rights of the deceased, financial motives of digital afterlife services, and potential harm caused by unscrupulous companies
• Recommendations include implementing best practices for retiring deadbots, limiting interactive features to adults, and being transparent about operations
• Examples of existing technology like chatbots and animated videos created from still photos highlight the controversial nature of recreating dead loved ones

https://www.theguardian.com/technology/article/2024/may/09/digital-recreations-of-dead-people-need-urgent-regulation-ai-ethicists-say…

• Neuralink’s first in-human brain implant encountered a problem, with threads retracting from the patient’s brain, affecting the system’s speed and accuracy.
• The brain-computer interface (BCI) developed by Neuralink aims to help paralyzed patients control technology with their minds.
• The Link system records neural signals using 1,024 electrodes across 64 threads thinner than a human hair.
• Despite the issue, the patient, Noland Arbaugh, uses the BCI for several hours daily and has found it beneficial.
• Neuralink is working on improving the system’s performance and safety, with further testing required for FDA approval.

https://www.cnbc.com/2024/05/08/neuralinks-first-in-human-brain-implant-has-experienced-a-problem-company-says-.html…

• Starfield’s new update introduces 3D surface and city maps, revealing surprisingly tiny city sizes.
• Bethesda announced the upcoming update with patch notes on May 1, offering an early beta version for Steam players.
• The update includes improved surface maps for better navigation and additional features like difficulty settings and UI tweaks.
• Cities like Akilia City, New Atlantis, and Neon are depicted as much smaller than expected on the new 3D maps.
• While the outer views of cities may seem small, there are hidden areas within buildings and underground that provide additional depth.

https://kotaku.com/starfield-new-3d-surface-city-maps-update-small-pc-rpg-1851453075…

• Boston Dynamics’ robot dog, Spot, dances in a glittery blue costume, sparking mixed reactions on social media.
• The custom costume named “Sparkles” was designed for Spot to explore intersections of robotics, art, and entertainment.
• The synchronized dance routine between two Spot models was both flawless and unsettling to viewers.
• Social media users found the performance creepy and joked about dystopian scenarios involving the robot dog.
• Spot, a renowned autonomous robot, has been involved in various tasks since its debut in 2016, showcasing its versatility and capabilities.

https://nypost.com/2024/05/02/tech/creepy-boston-dynamics-robot-dog-dances-in-glittery-blue-costume/…

• SpaceX is set to send robotic explorers to the Moon, equipped with advanced technologies to pave the way for human missions.
• The new generation of robotic scouts will lay the groundwork for future human settlements on the Moon, with plans for constructing infrastructure and habitats.
• SpaceX’s Starship is hailed as a revolutionary spacecraft for planetary exploration and settlement, designed to transport large payloads efficiently.
• The collaboration between SpaceX, NASA, and leading space experts aims to establish human bases on the Moon and Mars using clusters of Starships.
• Experimental robots, including the Intuitive Machines lander and NASA’s CADRE bots, will conduct missions to search for resources like water ice and create a wireless network on the Moon.

https://www.forbes.com/sites/kevinholdenplatt/2024/04/27/robot-explorers-futuristic-spacex-starships-set-to-transform-the-moon/…

• The hypertension drug rilmenidine has shown potential to increase lifespan and slow aging in animals, mimicking the effects of caloric restriction on a cellular level.
• Research indicates that rilmenidine could offer similar benefits as caloric restriction without the associated side effects, potentially improving health in old age.
• Studies on worms and mice have demonstrated that rilmenidine can extend lifespan and improve health markers by targeting a biological signaling receptor called nish-1.
• Rilmenidine is already widely prescribed for high blood pressure and has relatively mild side effects, making it a promising candidate for anti-aging drug development.
• While more research is needed to determine the efficacy of rilmenidine in humans, the early findings suggest its potential as an anti-aging treatment, especially in the context of an aging global population.

https://www.sciencealert.com/common-blood-pressure-drug-increases-lifespan-and-slows-aging-in-animals…

• Crab treasure etiquette tips: In Another Crab’s Treasure, ensure you respect vendors like Prawnathan, who can help you with valuable items and respec options.
• Utilize stealth and Stature mechanics: Take advantage of stealth elements and Stature gauge to navigate encounters efficiently.
• Explore the Sands Between: Uncover secrets and rewards in this dangerous yet rewarding area of the game.
• Shell spells in boss fights: Utilize specific shell spells in boss arenas to enhance your combat effectiveness.
• Duplicate powerful shells: Use the insurance system to duplicate rare shells and enhance your combat capabilities.

https://kotaku.com/another-crabs-treasure-guide-tips-things-to-know-1851438450…

• Former NASA engineer claims to have invented a ground-breaking thruster that operates without fuel
• Thruster technology aims to revolutionize space travel by eliminating the need for propellant
• Space startup Exodus Propulsion Technologies claims to have discovered a new force of nature to power propellant-free thrusters
• Co-founder Charles Buhler asserts that even a small amount of force in space can move objects, despite the thruster’s current limited capability
• The legitimacy and scalability of the new thruster technology are still under scrutiny, with potential implications for future space missions and propulsion systems

https://bgr.com/science/former-nasa-engineer-claims-he-invented-a-ground-breaking-thruster-that-doesnt-need-fuel/…

• Gemini on Android may soon respond on top of your current app, add file uploads, more
• Google has been enhancing Gemini for Android, with upcoming upgrades including responding in an overlay on top of current apps.
• Currently, Gemini for Android opens responses in a new window, but it is working on an overlay feature for a seamless experience.
• Gemini is also developing real-time responses and enabling file uploads for Advanced subscribers on Android.
• Further improvements include a new “select text” option alongside the existing “copy text” feature in the Android app.

https://9to5google.com/2024/04/23/gemini-android-overlay-changes/…

• Brazilian doctor Bruno Gobbato successfully performed shoulder surgery using the Apple Vision Pro headset, praising its diverse range of cameras and sensors that provided crucial information during the operation.
• The Vision Pro, a leading headset for augmented reality, offers a high-resolution display and real-time access to patient exams and 3D models, enhancing the surgical experience.
• Gobbato’s utilization of the Vision Pro showcased its ability to replace multiple traditional surgical tools, streamlining the process and improving efficiency in the operating room.
• The headset, hailed as a ‘game-changer’ by medical professionals, presents numerous potential applications beyond surgery, although its high price tag of $3,499 may be a barrier for some users.
• The company behind Vision Pro plans to expand its availability to more countries, with ongoing development to enhance the device’s capabilities for various real-world scenarios.

https://wccftech.com/doctor-uses-vision-pro-for-surgery/…

• Invisibility tech by Invisibility Shield Co. creates disappearing effects
• Precision-engineered lens array redirects light to make users vanish
• Technology uses elongated convex lenses on a polymer sheet to manipulate light
• Shields work effectively against various backdrops and horizontal lines
• Available for pre-order on Kickstarter, with different sizes and uses mentioned

https://www.foxnews.com/tech/how-new-crazy-invisibility-tech-can-literally-make-you-disappear…

• Microsoft VASA-1 utilizes deepfake technology to create synchronized animated videos from a single photo and audio track
• The AI model, VASA-1, generates lifelike videos with facial expressions, head movements, and lip-syncing, outperforming previous methods
• Trained on the VoxCeleb2 dataset, VASA-1 can produce high-resolution videos at up to 40 frames per second, potentially for real-time applications
• Microsoft emphasizes that the technology is for virtual characters and not intended for deepfaking real humans, citing privacy concerns
• While the potential positive applications are highlighted, there are concerns about misuse, such as creating misleading content or harassment from a single social media photo

https://arstechnica.com/information-technology/2024/04/microsofts-vasa-1-can-deepfake-a-person-with-one-photo-and-one-audio-track/…

• Neuralink has selected the Barrow Neurological Institute in Phoenix, Arizona, for its brain implant trial, with the first participant being Noah Arbaugh.
• The Telepathy device by Neuralink is a brain-computer interface that translates brain signals into commands for computer control, aiming to assist individuals with paralysis.
• Arbaugh showcased the system’s functionality in a livestream, demonstrating his ability to play online chess and video games using just his thoughts.
• Barrow Neurological Institute was chosen for its expertise in complex neurological conditions and will evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Neuralink’s device.
• The study, open to adults with quadriplegia or ALS, involves a six-year assessment period and the use of a surgical robot to implant a device that reads neural activity from electrodes in the brain.

https://www.wired.com/story/neuralink-brain-implant-study-site/…

• NASA is launching an experimental solar sail for sunlight-propelled space travel in Earth orbit.
• The Advanced Composite Solar Sail System (ACS3) will be launched on Rocket Lab’s Electron rocket from New Zealand.
• The solar sail will unfurl to stretch across 30 feet per side in Earth orbit, using the pressure of sunlight for propulsion.
• The mission will test the deployment of composite booms for the first time, which are designed to catch the propulsive power of sunlight.
• Solar sails operate on photons from the Sun, propelling spacecraft away from the star, potentially reaching high altitudes.

https://gizmodo.com/nasa-set-launch-solar-sail-sunlight-space-travel-1851420248…

• Hades 2 introduces two gods even hotter than the Hades gods
• Technical test for Hades 2 generates massive excitement among fans
• Supergiant Games streams gameplay revealing new characters and redesigns
• Social media platforms flooded with images and praise for the game’s characters
• Hades 2 set to release in early access this spring

https://www.polygon.com/24133438/hades-2-characters-art-gods-reactions…

• Parking spot availability app
• Joseph Gangi’s crossword utilizes the frequency illusion phenomenon
• The puzzle theme revolves around the concept of one “I” in the grid
• Various clues in the crossword are explained and dissected
• The crossword puzzle is designed to engage solvers with a unique visual and thematic experience

https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/16/crosswords/daily-puzzle-2024-04-17.html…

• NASA is collaborating with private companies to develop new moon vehicles, specifically a Lunar Terrain Vehicle (LTV).
• Three private companies, Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab, have been selected to propose designs for the LTV.
• The contract for the LTV project is valued at up to $4.6 billion over 15 years, with one company set to win the development contract.
• The LTV will play a crucial role in establishing a long-term presence on the moon and will be used for scientific research and exploration activities.
• The vehicle must be equipped to withstand the extreme conditions at the moon’s South Pole, operate autonomously, and support astronauts in conducting research and collecting materials on the lunar surface.

https://learningenglish.voanews.com/a/nasa-looks-to-private-companies-to-develop-new-moon-vehicles/7566994.html…

• Star Trek Replicator technology, a concept from the Star Trek franchise, is being developed by Nanotronics to create objects from raw materials.
• The Star Trek Replicator dematerializes matter to energy and rematerializes it to form desired objects, such as food and spare parts.
• The replicator’s potential to create items instantly could revolutionize industries like healthcare and food production.
• Nanotronics is using artificial intelligence to enhance the precision and efficiency of the replicator’s fabrication process.
• The journey towards making the Star Trek Replicator a household reality showcases the power of human imagination and technological progress, with AI playing a crucial role in the development process.

https://www.giantfreakinrobot.com/ent/star-trek-replicator-becoming-real.html…

• Apple has the capability to develop a robot that can perform household tasks, but it may not be available for at least a decade.
• Apple is exploring the development of a robot that can assist with daily chores, but the timeline for commercialization is uncertain.
• Despite past setbacks, Apple remains ambitious and has teams working on secret projects, potentially including a household robot.
• The company’s current focus is on incremental updates to its existing products, particularly the iPhone, to maintain its market dominance.
• While the idea of an Apple household robot is intriguing, significant progress in this area is not expected in the near future.

https://wccftech.com/apple-robot-doing-household-chores-is-a-decade-away/…

• Solar eclipse app development is a labor of love for developers creating SkySafari Eclipse 2024 for iOS and Android.
• The app enhances the experience of witnessing the 2024 solar eclipse by providing live updates, countdowns, and interactive features.
• Apps like SkySafari make eclipses accessible to all, allowing users to experience the event from any location on Earth.
• Safety is a priority, with the app offering a comprehensive Eclipse Viewing Guide to ensure a secure viewing experience.
• After the eclipse, users are encouraged to recycle their glasses through Astronomers Without Borders to contribute to outreach and educational programs worldwide.

https://www.space.com/solar-eclipse-2024-skysafari-app-op-ed…

• Moon rover options for NASA narrowed down to three teams: Intuitive Machines, Lunar Outpost, and Venturi Astrolab
• NASA seeks durable rover for lunar surface near Moon’s South Pole, capable of autonomous operation and supporting astronauts
• Initial design work worth tens of millions of dollars to set stage for larger demonstration phase
• NASA plans to purchase rover services for 10 years, with potential contract value of $4.6 billion
• Companies must deliver rovers before Artemis V mission, facing challenges of harsh lunar conditions and demanding operational requirements

https://arstechnica.com/space/2024/04/nasa-asks-the-commercial-space-industry-for-a-rugged-long-lived-lunar-rover/…