Could algorithms alter the way we find new musical talent?
Over 25 million creators now use SoundCloud. With so much music available, are algorithms the solution to finding the next pop sensation? Algorithms are now accepted as an integral part of the digital world. They determine what pops up on our social media feeds, allocate tailored advertisements, and are useful in...
Current in Technology
Could ocean geoengineering help to thwart climate change?
Marine scientists across the globe believe ocean geoengineering may offer the means to effectively thwart climate change. But could trapping gigatons of carbon underwater have unforeseen consequences? With Cop26 fast approaching in November, dozens of ocean geoengineering projects are currently being trialled to test the feasibility of trapping carbon emissions...
Regulatory hurdles for flying taxis almost cleared
Talk of flying taxis called eVTOLs were all the rage in 2019. But, only now has the concept gathered enough investment and regulatory ticks to be considered a realistic prospect. This time, they really are close to take-off. While aviation endeavours to make biofuel a staple of the industry, can...
How Gen Z elevated dogecoin from meme to leading cryptocurrency
Dogecoin, a cryptocurrency named after a viral dog meme from years past, has hit an all-time high this month. Here’s how Gen Z and its inherent love of memes carried the movement. Getting your head around the frantically changing world of cryptocurrency can be tricky, but the explosion of dogecoin...
Apple’s meaningful upgrade to health-tech for iOS 15
Apple has always had an underlying focus on health data and wearable tech, but its iOS 15 update will provide a level of medical detail and accessibility never seen before. Apple is currently in day six of its Worldwide Developers Conference for 2021. That’s right, it really has been a...
Biden administration launches $1bn grant for broadband on tribal lands
Only half of households on US tribal lands have any kind of internet service. Biden’s $1bn grant proposal hopes to bring digital inclusion, telehealth, and distance learning to all natives who want it. The digital divide between those living in major conurbations and those within tribal lands has stunted America’s...
EU Commission and Bill Gates target $1bn to accelerate clean technology
The EU Commission and Bill Gates are looking to mobilise as much as $1bn USD investment into sustainable tech such as clean hydrogen and green fuel sources. When self-made billionaires start to push bold eco-initiatives backed by serious money, the mind naturally starts to wonder about potential greenwashing, PR stunting, and what these influential names really stand to gain. With such a glistening track record in sustainable tech, however, Bill Gates...
Vocal synthesiser project Solaris begins crowdfunding
AI technology project Solaris is entering its crowdfunding stage, providing further evidence that the industry is about to be altered significantly. Ever wanted a singer for your new instrumental but lack the funds or contacts to hire someone? If you fit into that oddly specific niche than you may want to check out this new crowdfunding campaign launched by Eclipsed Sounds for its project titled Solaris. Using automated sounds Solaris is...
Could satellite deepfakes become a national security threat?
Geographers are becoming increasingly concerned about the spread of AI-generated satellite imagery and its potential to create hoax content or skew visual reports. Some even suggest it’s a threat to national security. When discussing deepfakes, most of us think of Nicholas Cage memes, unresolved issues of non-consensual pornography, or doctored political propaganda. What doesn’t immediately jump out is the potential for AI-generated imagery to manipulate satellite photos of cityscapes and countryside. This...
Light Phone II removes social apps to reduce anxiety
The Light Phone II removes all social media apps to give users a minimal, stripped back experience that reduces user anxiety and encourages time away from your screen. If you’re sick of endlessly scrolling through social media feeds, you may want to check out the ‘Light Phone II’, a minimalist smartphone developed by two ex-Google employees that’s designed to alleviate anxiety and reduce your phone usage. You won’t be getting fancy...
