Duolingo Introduces New Energy System to Replace Hearts for a More Engaging Learning Experience
Duolingo is replacing its hearts system with a new energy mechanic that aims to motivate users by rewarding progress instead of penalizing mistakes. The energy system encourages continuous learning with the potential for more lessons completed, and it offers improved user engagement. The update is coming first to iOS and will be available on Android later this year, supporting Duolingo's broader AI-first strategy and course growth.
Apple's 2027 iPhone: A Glass-Covered, Curved Marvel and More Exciting Innovations
Apple is gearing up for a landmark 2027 with a mostly glass, curved iPhone featuring an under-screen camera, alongside groundbreaking products like a foldable iPhone, smart glasses, AI-powered Siri, and a home robot. Apple's innovation extends to new AI chips developed by its specialized silicon design team, pushing the boundaries of mobile and AI technology.
Honor Introduces Google-Powered AI Image-to-Video Generator on New Smartphones
Honor's new smartphones will feature an AI tool by Google that converts images to short videos. Launching May 22 with the Honor 400 series, it creates five-second videos from photos using the Veo 2 model, embedded in the Gallery app. While effective with simple subjects, it can produce unexpected and humorous outputs with complex images.
Indigenous Scientists Unite to Safeguard Their Cultural Data
Indigenous scientists, led by Professor Max Liboiron, connect monthly to support each other against challenges in Western academia and protect their cultural data. Political shifts in the US heightened the urgency to defend Indigenous research and sovereignty, highlighting the intersection of activism and science in preserving Indigenous rights.
Quantum Systems Becomes Europe's Newest Defence Tech Unicorn with €160 Million Funding
Quantum Systems, a German drone startup, raised €160 million, valuing it over €1 billion and making it Europe's newest defence tech unicorn. Their AI-powered autonomous drones serve both military and civilian sectors, aiding in reconnaissance, agriculture, energy inspections, and rescue missions.
Dutch Startup Eyeo Advances Camera Tech with Human-Like Color Vision
Eyeo, a Dutch startup from Belgium's Imec, secured €15 million to develop photonics technology for cameras. Their waveguide colour-splitting tech triples light sensitivity, improving image clarity and brightness in various cameras, notably in low-light conditions.
Experience the World's First Song Created with Quantum Computing and AI
The UK tech startup Moth and British artist ILĀ have launched "Recurse," the world’s first commercially available song produced by quantum-powered generative AI. This innovative track blends quantum physics with electronic music, creating an otherworldly listening experience and marking a new chapter in music production.
Klein Vision's Aircar 2: A $1 Million Flying Sports Car Launching in 2026
Klein Vision is set to launch the Aircar 2, a flying sports car priced around $1 million, capable of transforming into a plane in 80 seconds. This upgraded model boasts a 280-horsepower engine and follows the successful 2021 test flight of the original Aircar.
UK's Cybersecurity Systems Face Major Revamp for Quantum Computing Threats
The UK's National Cyber Security Centre warns of the urgent need to overhaul cybersecurity systems to protect against the threats posed by future quantum computers, which could break current encryption methods and compromise sensitive data. Proactive steps are essential to safeguard digital security.
Denmark to Test Autonomous Sea Drones for Security in Northern Europe Amid Russia Tensions
Denmark is trialing four autonomous, solar and wind-powered sea drones equipped with sensors and AI to patrol Northern European waters. The drones will help detect threats such as enemy submarines and illegal activities, enhancing maritime security amid rising tensions with Russia.
Five UK Scaleups Named to TECH5 - The Premier European Tech Competition
Five leading UK scaleups have qualified for TECH5, Europe's prestigious tech competition. The UK continues to solidify its status as a leading tech hub with strong investments and a thriving startup ecosystem. In 2023, the UK attracted €17.5bn in tech investments, underscoring its position in the European market.