How sunburn inspired a new way to store energy
Molecules that can capture heat could be a useful technology to decarbonise heating.

Molecules that can capture heat could be a useful technology to decarbonise heating.

Meta has launched Muse Image, a new AI model for generating images, aiming to attract creators and advertisers. Available for free to consumers and via subscription for power users, it will also power advertiser tools within Meta's Advantage Plus service. The company aims to reduce reliance on third-party AI models and plans to release a video generation model, Muse Video, later.

Robots like Moxi, used in US hospitals for supply delivery, are increasingly available through rental or subscription models, known as robotics-as-a-service. This approach lowers upfront costs for institutions and individuals, allowing access to rapidly evolving technology and avoiding obsolescence, with companies like 1X offering humanoid home helper robots on similar terms.

A new academic study found that generative AI platforms provide financial advice that can be inaccurate, demographically biased, and vary significantly between programs. Researchers examined seven free-access AI tools, noting that while they may sound confident, their outputs can be incomplete or misleading, raising concerns about consistency and fairness.

Hesai Technology, a Shanghai-based lidar manufacturer, is under scrutiny for national security risks despite being blacklisted by the U.S. Department of Defense. Experts warn that Chinese lidar could create backdoors for Beijing to access sensitive data, while the company's CEO denies these claims. Hesai's technology is integrated into various autonomous systems, including those of Nvidia, Zoox, and Amazon.

A survey reveals 50% of employees feel they rely too much on AI, with many fearing it makes them less intelligent and harms career prospects. Experts advise using AI as a partner, not a crutch, by auditing AI use, doing difficult tasks manually first, and developing uniquely human skills.

Hospitals and businesses are increasingly renting robots, from medical supply movers like Moxi to humanoid entertainers and home helpers. This 'robotics-as-a-service' model offers flexibility, lower upfront costs, and access to the latest technology, addressing the rapid pace of innovation in the robotics industry.