Headliner
Boom repurposes supersonic jet engine to power AI data centers
by David Szondy
The hot trends of civilian supersonic flight and artificial intelligence collide as Boom Supersonic announces that, as a new revenue stream, the core technology of its Mach 1+ Symphony jet engine has been adapted to run power-hungry AI data centers.
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Highlights
Ancient innovation: Neanderthals put a lot of thought into their crayons
by Jay Kakade
New research is adding to the body of evidence showing Neanderthals indulged in expressing abstract behavior, this time with archaeologists finding evidence of pencil-like crayons that were likely used to make symbolic art.
Tiny house blends space-saving design with traditional Japanese styling
by Adam Williams
With its modest footprint and low ceilings, you're not going to be throwing any wild parties in the Nozawa. However, this compact tiny house squeezes in a practical interior that blends traditional Japanese design with modern space-saving ideas.
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This $99 ring remembers everything so your brain doesn't have to
by Abhimanyu Ghoshal
The Index 01 ring – from the makers of the Pebble smartwatch – captures your ideas as you speak into it. It's meant to act as external memory for your brain, while lasting for years on a single-use battery that doesn't need recharging.
Anti-inflammatories act as antidepressants – but only for some
by Michael Franco
There's a well-established link between depression and chronic low-grade inflammation. Now, a new meta-study shows that treating the inflammation can reduce depression in two ways, offering a potential alternative to antidepressants and their side effects.
Soft robots can now see with a self-focusing squishy eye
by Malcolm Azania
Georgia Tech takes vision for soft robots to the next level with PHySL, a biomimetic photo-responsive hydrogel soft lens that focuses using light alone. It does away with electronics, wires, bulk, and the dangers of breaking.
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Ultra-fast single-shot tensor computing trades 1s and 0s for light waves
by Malcolm Azania
Massively faster, more scalable, and more energy efficient than electronic computation, single-shot tensor computing uses light’s amplitude and phase to store, process, and send data. It could "create a new generation of optical computing systems."
'Healthy chocolate' can now taste like the real thing
by Shirl Leigh
In response to the current global cocoa shortage, a research team from the National University of Singapore has developed two innovative processes to improve the taste of carob pulp. The result could be a sustainable chocolate alternative.
Titanium coin-sized flashlight boasts 300 lm and can last a whole day
by Abhimanyu Ghoshal
The best flashlight is the one you have on you – but it sure helps if yours is easy to bring with you everywhere. That's where the ED08 from Rodman scores points: it's the size of a coin, and includes thoughtful features for outdoor adventures.
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