All Technology
- First LookAs the world becomes computerized, can we bridge digital inequalities?
Global initiatives seek to teach online skills to increase access to jobs and education. However, some experts debate how well these schemes reach those most in need since to work well users first have to be able to afford an internet connection.
- First LookFacebook's app for kids draws criticism from parents
On Tuesday, a group of parenting organizations and advocates sent a letter to Facebook urging it to end its new messaging app for kids. The app allows children under the age of 13 to chat using their parents accounts, but critics worry it exploits young users.
- First LookTrump security team explores US-built 5G network
Due to concerns about the growing Chinese share of the wireless market the Trump administration says a nationalized wireless network would counter Chinese spying on US phones.
- First LookAs clean energy prices fall, rural communities in Asia, Africa benefit
As renewable energy becomes cheaper and more commercially used, unplugged communities in Asia, Africa, and other corners of the world will soon have to access to modern energy. Places in Mauritius and Rwanda are already outfitting homes with solar systems.
- First LookNew 3-D projection technology allows 'printing in space'
Scientists at Brigham Young University have harnessed nearly unseen airborne particles to project three-dimensional images into open space. The new technology produces sharper and more accurate displays than holograms.
- Now, even some tech firms acknowledge tech's downside
The request by influential shareholders for Apple to help curb excessive digital media use among teens and Mark Zuckerberg's decision to revamp Facebook's newsfeed comes amid a growing discontent over the ways that technology platforms foster habit-forming behavior. Some companies, including Facebook, appear to be listening.
- Cover Story18 bright ideas for 2018, from flying taxis to companion robots
New technologies on the horizon will transform how we work and live.
- First LookCompanies race to produce supersonic jets suited for everyday travel
Relying on venture capital, companies such as Lockheed Martin and Boom Technology aim to make supersonic jets that are fuel efficient and quiet enough to be used for business travel.
- First LookFacebook unveils AI-powered feature to help the blind use its site
The social media giant is advancing its algorithms with face recognition text-to-audio software.
- Can a machine be creative?
Computerized forays into the arts prompt new exploration of what it means to be creative.
- First LookTesla builds giant battery to help meet power needs in South Australia
Tesla Inc has built a giant lithium-ion battery to supplement the power from wind farms. Tesla and the South Australian government hope this will provide more stability in the nation's often inconsistent power grid.
- As fears cloud net neutrality debate, is common ground being overlooked?
The complexities of net neutrality don't exactly lend themselves to easy dinner-time conversation. Many Americans are taking sides as a gut reaction to abstract fears, without exploring the nuances of the debate.
- First LookTesla's next goal: electric semi-trucks
Tesla has unveiled an electric semi-truck that will go 500 miles on a single charge, have an autopilot system, and be capable of driving in convoy with autonomous technology.
- First LookUber and NASA partner for development of flying taxi service
NASA has struck a deal with Uber to develop software that would manage logistics of the proposed flying taxi service that could come to Los Angeles and Dallas/Fort Worth as soon as 2020.
- First LookTech giants to testify on Russian influence throughout sites during US election
Facebook, Twitter, and Google, expected to present any evidence of Russian activity on their sites during the US presidential election in Congress, have already begun addressing how to prevent meddling in elections via advertisements.
- First LookNew smart locks would allow Amazon to deliver directly into homes
Amazon's plan to address theft of packages left on shoppers' doorsteps is a new smart lock system. Customers could remotely control access to their homes for deliveries and other professional services.
- First LookTech giants to campaign for Dreamers to remain in US
Amazon and Uber, among others, are members of the Coalition for the American Dream which supports legislation to keep DACA recipients in the US. Lawmakers are expected to consider legislation regarding Dreamers in December.
- How these librarians are changing how we think about digital privacy
The Library Freedom Project aims to train librarians in the basics of digital surveillance, adding to a long tradition of public libraries standing in opposition to state and corporate power.
- First LookShowdown looms in Saudi Arabia's e-commerce market
Saudi Arabia's online retail market has remained largely untapped, with only one major company operating within the Kingdom. Now Amazon and Noon.com will be competing for online customers.
- Combating fake news may force big changes at Facebook, Twitter
As social media giants and Google face pressure to counter manipulation of their political content, the task is to temper a data-driven emphasis on customer engagement with social responsibility.