A company that specializes in early wildfire detection has developed a new, AI-based drone it says will help speed up the detection, location and monitoring of fires. The Silvaguard drone by Dryard Networks was presented Thursday in Eberswalde outside of Berlin as wildfires driven by extreme heat and climate change are becoming a more common, often deadly phenomenon around the globe. The drone will deliver infrared images, among other things, and works in combination with a fire detection system that the company developed earlier and that's already being used in several countries. The fire detection system, called Silvanet, is designed to detect wildfires at the smoldering stage using solar-powered gas sensors connected via a wireless network. Each gas sensor can protect an area the size of a football field and be attached to a tree. The plan is that once Silvanet detects a fire, it will trigger a nearby Silvaguard drone to fly to the location and provide detailed images. ChatGPT’s viral Ghibli-Style images raise AI copyright concerns “Today we saw a combination of Silvanet — the solar powered gas sensors that detected the fire within minutes — with Silvaguard, the first prototype of an autonomous, an AI enabled drone that we dispatched in response to a fire," said Carsten Brinkschulte, the CEO and co-founder, Dryad Networks. The drone “flew autonomously to the location of the sensor, detecting the fire, and delivered overhead infrared and optical video from the point of fire,” he said of the newly developed drone. The company is still waiting to get the go-ahead for the commercial use of Silvaguard drone from authorities. The information about the fire, including geographic coordinates, video and infrared images, will then be sent to the firefighters who will then know where the fire is spreading and how big it is, which will help them know how many firefighters need to be deployed. “When it comes to wildfires, time is of the essence, you cannot be fast enough," Brinkschulte said.

China is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to transform agriculture, particularly in smart breeding, which is paving the way for high-yield, climate-resilient "super crops" that could reshape global food security amid environmental challenges. At the 2025 Seed Congress, held from March 20 to 23 in Sanya, Hainan Province, smart breeding was a focal point. More than 40 exhibitors presented state-of-the-art technologies and flagship crop varieties, demonstrating how AI-driven breeding is transitioning from concept to reality. Digital exhibits showcased breakthroughs such as AI-powered genomic analysis and cloud-based farm monitoring systems. Experts at the event highlighted how smart breeding is modernizing traditional techniques into precision agriculture. This transformation is helping to address seed resource constraints, strengthen self-sufficiency in the seed sector, and bolster China's strategic role in the global seed market. Li Jiayang, an academician at the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), introduced the idea of "intelligent creation of intelligent varieties," emphasizing the integration of AI, biotechnology, and information technology to develop crops that can adapt to environmental conditions. Another CAS academician, Qian Qian, noted the complexity of crop traits. "Understanding the relationship between genes and traits requires computational power and advanced algorithms," he said. Unlike conventional small-scale breeding, smart breeding follows an industrialized model, pooling extensive resources to efficiently integrate desirable traits. AI-driven breeding is already yielding significant results. At China National Seed Group, researchers employ a cloud-based system to remotely monitor fields, collecting real-time data on crop health and growth. This allows scientists to address issues promptly and optimize breeding strategies. One major advancement is in hybrid rice development. Traditionally, breeders tested thousands of combinations to identify a superior hybrid. Now, AI-powered genomic analysis can predict high-yield combinations before field trials commence. Chinese researchers use Earth science satellite to monitor offshore oil, gas platforms "We have moved from experience-driven to data-driven breeding," said Li Huihui, deputy director of the National Nanfan Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences. Another key innovation is "Fengdeng," a seed-focused large language model developed primarily by the Yazhou Bay National Laboratory in Sanya. This AI platform provides expert guidance on breeding, cultivation, and industry trends, equipping farmers and researchers with valuable insights. Despite these advancements, challenges persist. China's smart breeding sector lags behind global seed industry leaders in data-sharing infrastructure and commercialization. The fragmentation of datasets limits AI’s ability to predict and engineer superior crop varieties. "Accelerating the development of high-yield, high-quality and climate-resilient 'super varieties' is crucial," Qian said, calling for collaboration among breeding institutions, AI researchers, and agribusinesses to propel smart breeding innovation.

Nvidia, a leading AI technology firm, has launched a series of initiatives aimed at accelerating the development of humanoid robots. The company's CEO, Jensen Huang, revealed a groundbreaking collaboration with Disney Research and Google’s DeepMind AI lab during his keynote address at the 2025 GTC developers conference. The partnership focuses on the creation of Newton, an open-source physics engine that allows robots to refine their skills and tackle complex tasks with improved precision. Huang hailed the collaboration, declaring that "the age of generalist robotics is here." Disney Research will be one of the first organisations to implement Newton, using it to enhance its robotic character platform. Google acquires cybersecurity firm Wiz for $32 billion in its largest-ever deal This platform powers next-generation entertainment robots, including the Star Wars-inspired "BDX" droids that appeared during Huang’s presentation. Kyle Laughlin, Senior VP at Walt Disney Imagineering Research & Development, emphasised that the collaboration would enable the creation of more expressive and engaging robots, helping to deliver unique experiences for Disney guests. Alongside the Newton project, Nvidia introduced Isaac GR00T N1, a fully customisable foundation model designed for humanoid reasoning and skills. Available now, GR00T N1 is the first in a family of models that Nvidia expects to release to robotics developers globally. As AI reshapes hospital care, human nurses push back Huang demonstrated the robot's ability to perform domestic tasks autonomously using a "post-trained policy" based on GR00T N1, a result of Nvidia's AI training partnership with 1X. The GR00T N1 model is designed to generalise across common tasks such as object manipulation, as well as handle more complex, multi-step activities. Early adopters of GR00T N1 include Agility Robotics, Boston Dynamics, Mentee Robotics, and Neura Robotics, all of which are set to advance the next generation of AI-driven robotics.

NASA is switching off two science instruments on its long-running twin Voyager spacecraft to save power. The space agency said Wednesday an instrument on Voyager 2 that measures charged particles and cosmic rays will shut off later this month. Last week, NASA powered down an instrument on Voyager 1 designed to study cosmic rays. The energy-saving moves were necessary to extend their missions, Voyager project manager Suzanne Dodd at the NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory said in a statement. The twin spacecraft launched in 1977 and are currently in interstellar space, or the space between stars. Voyager 1 discovered a thin ring around Jupiter and several of Saturn’s moons, and Voyager 2 is the only spacecraft to visit Uranus and Neptune. Last-minute problems with SpaceX's mega rocket Starship forces delay of latest test flight Each spacecraft still has three instruments apiece to study the sun's protective bubble and the swath of space beyond. Voyager 1 is over 15 billion miles (24.14 billion kilometers) from Earth and Voyager 2 is over 13 billion miles (20.92 billion kilometers) away.

Chinese researchers have unveiled a novel application of the Earth science satellite SDGSAT-1 for observing offshore oil and gas platforms. The study, led by researchers from the Aerospace Information Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), was recently published in the International Journal of Digital Earth. As global demand for oil rises and the industry moves toward decarbonization, tailored monitoring of oil and gas platforms has become increasingly necessary. However, tracking these platforms in vast and dynamic oceanic regions has long posed challenges. The researchers used the SDGSAT-1's Glimmer Imager and Thermal Infrared Spectrometer to track gas flaring activities in the South China Sea. This innovative approach enabled them to map platform operations with greater precision. Chinese scientists develop new AI model for cyclone forecast The findings helped researchers identify 113 oil and gas platforms amidst the complex maritime environment of islands, vessels, and other offshore facilities in the region. "These findings highlight the competence of SDGSAT-1 in tracking the operational status of oil and gas platforms," according to the study. Launched on Nov. 5, 2021, the SDGSAT-1 is the world's first Earth science satellite dedicated to supporting the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Developed by the CAS, the satellite provides crucial space-based data to assess human-environment interactions and promote sustainable development.

Chinese scientists have developed a new artificial intelligence (AI) method to forecast the rapid intensification of a tropical cyclone, shedding new light on improving global disaster preparedness. Recently, researchers from the Institute of Oceanology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences published this study in the journal, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The rapid intensification of a tropical cyclone, which refers to a dramatic increase in the intensity of a tropical storm over a short period, remains one of the most challenging weather phenomena to forecast because of its unpredictable and destructive nature. According to the study, traditional forecasting methods, such as numerical weather prediction and statistical approaches, often fail to consider the complex environmental and structural factors driving rapid intensification. While AI has been explored to improve rapid intensification prediction, most AI techniques have struggled with high false alarm rates and limited reliability. Meta set to introduce Ray-Ban smart glasses in 2025 To address this issue, the researchers have developed a new AI model that combines satellite, atmospheric and oceanic data. When tested on data from the tropical cyclone periods in the Northwest Pacific between 2020 and 2021, the new method achieved an accuracy of 92.3 percent and reduced false alarms to 8.9 percent. The new method improved accuracy by nearly 12 percent compared to existing techniques and boasted a 3-times reduction in false alarms, representing a significant advancement in forecasting, said the study. "This study addresses the challenges of low accuracy and high false alarm rates in rapid intensification forecasting," said Li Xiaofeng, the study's corresponding author. "Our method enhances understanding of these extreme events and supports better defenses against their devastating impacts," Li added. 

Meta is gearing up to enhance its popular Ray-Ban smart glasses with a significant technological leap. According to a report by the Financial Times, the upcoming version, set to be released in 2025, will feature an integrated virtual display. This development positions Meta to strengthen its foothold in a market that is attracting major players like Samsung and Google. A New Era for Ray-Ban Smart Glasses Since their initial launch, Ray-Ban Meta smart glasses have gained widespread acclaim for seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with timeless style. Equipped with voice assistant capabilities, users can send messages, make calls, and manage various functions hands-free. Built-in speakers allow users to hear notifications and messages without headphones, while touch-sensitive controls on the frame enable effortless media playback and call management. Top 7 Gaming Earphones of 2024: Must-Have Picks for Gamers The integration of a display marks a substantial upgrade to the existing features. Currently, the glasses connect to smartphones via Bluetooth, providing audio-based notifications and interactions. Some models even include a discreet camera for photo and video capture. However, the lack of a visual display has been a limitation — one that the third-generation glasses are poised to overcome. What to Expect from the 2025 Model The addition of a display will transform the user experience. Beyond showing notifications and interacting with Meta’s AI, the display could offer navigation directions, fitness tracking data, and other real-time information. This hands-free functionality would cater to both tech enthusiasts and those seeking practical applications in daily life. The new model is expected to launch in the latter half of 2025, according to Financial Times. By integrating advanced AI features and an interactive display, Meta aims to maintain its competitive edge as Samsung and Google prepare to enter the smart glasses market with AI-powered innovations. Enter Meta’s Orion AR Glasses Meta’s ambitions extend beyond Ray-Ban smart glasses. In September 2024, the company unveiled Orion, a cutting-edge AR device likened to the fictional face computers seen in Marvel’s Iron Man. Orion boasts the largest field of view in the smallest AR glasses form factor to date, capable of performing tasks such as multitasking windows, immersive entertainment, and life-size holographic interactions. Albanian prime minister says TikTok ban was not a 'rushed reaction to a single incident' This device represents a leap forward in augmented reality, merging digital content with the physical world in a lightweight, versatile design. Meta envisions Orion as a tool for both personal and professional use, enabling remote face-to-face connections. While currently in the prototype stage, Orion is slated for commercial release in 2027. Rising Competition in the Smart Glasses Market For years, Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses faced little competition. However, the landscape is changing as tech giants like Samsung and Google gear up to launch their own products. These companies are likely to incorporate advanced AI capabilities, further intensifying the competition. By advancing the Ray-Ban smart glasses and preparing Orion for the market, Meta is clearly committed to staying ahead in the race. The integration of display technology into the Ray-Ban glasses represents a critical step in this strategy, ensuring that Meta continues to lead the way in wearable tech innovation. As the world moves closer to a future dominated by augmented reality, Meta’s advancements signal exciting times ahead for both consumers and the tech industry. Source: With inputs from Financial Times and India Today

The endangered Geoffrey’s spider monkeys that dangle high in the rainforest canopy are elusive and hard for scientists to track. So biologist Jenna Lawson hid 350 audio monitors in trees across Costa Rica's lush Osa Peninsula to spy on them. The devices recorded the sounds of the forest and surrounding countryside for a week, collecting so much data that Lawson could have spent years listening to it all. Instead, she fed it into artificial intelligence systems trained to instantly recognize spider monkey calls and detect where the animals traveled. One of the world’s largest acoustic wildlife studies when Lawson began the project in 2021, it revealed troubling findings about the health of a treasured wildlife refuge. More of this AI-assisted wildlife surveillance is “urgently needed” as some 28% of all plant and animal species are now at risk of extinction, according to a paper published in the academic journal Science this summer. Researchers from Dutch and Danish universities showed that machine-learning techniques can “handle huge amounts of data and uncover sound patterns, allowing for faster, cheaper, and better ecological studies” that can aid in biodiversity conservation. But many technical challenges remain. Tech giant Microsoft's philanthropic AI for Good Lab announced this month it is hoping to answer some of those technical challenges with a new kind of hardware and computing system for eavesdropping on the planet's wildest places. “Those remote places are also the most important places on the Earth from a biodiversity perspective,” said Microsoft's chief data scientist, Juan Lavista Ferres, in an interview last week by video call from Colombia, where a research team was preparing to test the new approach. Powered by the sun and energy-efficient AI computer chips, the devices can run for years rather than weeks without human intervention. And they can regularly transmit their data online via low-Earth orbit satellites. It's called Sparrow, short for Solar-Powered Acoustic and Remote Recording Observation Watch. Pablo Arbelaez, director of an AI-focused research center at the University of the Andes, said a first Sparrow test will happen in a jungle preserve along Colombia's largest river, the Magdalena. Eventually, the researchers hope to get a better idea of how deforestation — and efforts to reverse it — is affecting the population behavior of jaguars, blue-beaked paujil birds, spider monkeys and other endangered species. Another project closer to Microsoft headquarters will monitor forests in Washington state's Cascade Mountains. By late 2025, Lavista Ferres plans to have devices on all continents, from remote corners of the Amazon rainforest to gorilla habitats of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. That will then be “open-sourced” to make it accessible to a wide body of researchers in real time, but with measures to obscure sensitive location data. “What we don’t want is these devices to ever be used for poachers to understand where the animals are,” Lavista Ferres said. It was a concern about encroachments on Costa Rican spider monkey habitat that led Lawson, then at Imperial College London, to undertake her ambitious bio-acoustic study three years ago. She persuaded landowners to let her place recording devices on their properties outside Corcovado National Park, a jewel of Costa Rica's decades-long efforts to preserve biodiversity by encouraging wildlife tourism. “She basically realized the spider monkey is in a really critical situation,” said local environmentalist and bug scientist Jim Córdoba-Alfaro. On a follow-up visit last year, he and Lawson trekked across a private reserve with an Associated Press reporter to observe the monkeys and check on the audio monitors. Italy fines OpenAI for ChatGPT data privacy violations Compared to the charismatic capuchin monkey and the notoriously loud howler monkey -- both commonly seen or heard throughout Costa Rica — spider monkeys are far more wary of humans and the changes they bring. “They’re the most sensitive of the primates that we have here,” said Lawson. “The spider monkey would be the first animal to leave when there’s signs of trouble. They would be the last animal to come back once forests are restored because they need mature secondary and primary forest to be able to survive.” The Royal Society of London in March 2023 published Lawson's findings of what the audio monitors revealed: the spider monkeys weren't going anywhere near paved roads or the plantations harvesting palm oil and teak wood that bisect the region's protected national parks. That meant government-designated wildlife corridors meant to extend their range through and beyond the Osa Peninsula were not working as well as designed. She came back to present those conclusions to local officials. After hours of searching, a troop of spider monkeys appeared — peering down at the humans who found them. Within moments, they were on their way again — extending their lanky arms and prehensile tails to grasp at trees and propel themselves across the canopy with spidery acrobatics. Unattended acoustic detection of animal sounds is valuable not just in rainforests but in a wide variety of ecosystems, according to the Science paper published earlier this year. For example, it could help sailors avoid colliding their ships with large baleen whales heard to be passing through a shipping channel. Lavista Ferres said there are still numerous challenges to overcome, from humidity that can fray jungle monitors to elephants in African savannas unintentionally knocking them off a tree. Lawson said using the audio monitors to capture the spider monkey's distinctive whinny enables biologists to study a larger area at lower cost, but also provides a truer account of how the monkeys behave without scientists following them around. “We’re reducing our influence on their behavior,” she said. ”And also — they don’t want us here."

Apple has unveiled a new feature, Share Item Location, which lets iPhone users securely share the location of AirTags with third parties, such as airlines, to aid in recovering lost luggage. This feature, part of Apple’s iOS 18.2 public beta and set to become widely available soon, is designed to enhance the efficiency of baggage tracking during air travel, offering travellers greater peace of mind. How the Feature Works Using the Find My app on an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, users can now create a secure link to share the location of their AirTag, visible on an interactive map. The link, valid for seven days and equipped with end-to-end encryption, enables airline personnel to view real-time updates of the item’s whereabouts. For security, the link expires automatically after the bag is located, and the user can disable it at any time. Each map update includes timestamps, ensuring accuracy for both the traveller and airline. Adoption by Major Airlines This feature is already being integrated by major airlines like Delta, United, British Airways, and Singapore Airlines, with over 15 carriers planning to adopt it by the close of 2024. By implementing Apple’s AirTag location data into their customer service processes, airlines are expected to significantly improve the way they handle delayed or misplaced luggage. Integration with Global Systems SITA, a leader in air transport technology, will integrate Apple’s Share Item Location feature into its WorldTracer system, which is utilised by over 500 airlines worldwide. This partnership aims to streamline the luggage-tracking process, benefitting both travellers and airline staff by providing quicker, more accurate information on lost baggage. Commitment to Data Privacy Privacy remains at the core of Apple’s approach. The Find My network is designed with strict data security, ensuring end-to-end encryption and user anonymity. Only authorised airline representatives can access the shared location data, which Apple believes will foster trust among users. Bringing Confidence to Travellers With this latest feature, Apple is addressing a common source of frustration for travellers. By offering a simple and secure way to share an item’s location, Apple’s Share Item Location feature represents a significant step forward in utilising technology to support seamless travel experiences.

Officials in Hong Kong said Wednesday they have discovered dinosaur fossils in the city for the first time on a remote, uninhabited island that's part of a geopark. Experts have initially confirmed the fossils were part of a large dinosaur from the Cretaceous period, about 145 million to 66 million years ago, the government said in a statement. They will need to conduct further studies to confirm the species of the dinosaur. Experts speculate that the dinosaur was likely buried by sand and gravel after its death before it was later washed to the surface by a large flood, and subsequently buried again at the discovery site, it said. The government said the conservation department in March informed its Antiquities and Monuments Office about a sedimentary rock containing substances suspected to be vertebrate fossils. The rock was found on Port Island in the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark in the city's northeastern waters. The government said it commissioned mainland Chinese experts to conduct field investigations. Port Island is closed to the public from Wednesday until further notice to facilitate future investigations and excavations. The fossils will be on display at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui, one of the city's popular shopping districts, starting on Friday. The government is also planning to open a temporary workshop for the public to observe experts' preparation of fossil specimens by the end of 2024.