Theo Klein

Analogue chips could speed up AI training 1000 times

Researchers at Peking University have developed analogue computer chips that solve key matrix equations for AI training with high accuracy and speed. These chips promise up to 1000 times faster processing and 100 times less energy use compared to digital GPUs. The innovation addresses the rising energy demands of AI in data centres.

Microsoft azure outage disrupts cloud services worldwide

October 30, 2025 Theo Klein

Microsoft's Azure cloud platform experienced a major outage on October 29, 2025, affecting services like Microsoft 365, Xbox, and Minecraft starting around noon Eastern time. The company attributed the disruption to an inadvertent configuration change. This incident marks the second significant cloud failure in less than two weeks, underscoring vulnerabilities in the digital infrastructure.

London tube stations reach extreme temperatures

Researchers have recorded temperatures as high as 42 Celsius in London Underground stations amid rising global heat. Jonathan Paul, a scientist at Royal Holloway, University of London, measures these conditions using a thermometer-equipped smartphone. Underground commuters face stifling heat with no easy escape.

James Webb telescope detects carbon-rich disk around young exoplanet

NASA's James Webb Space Telescope has observed a carbon-rich disk surrounding the exoplanet CT Cha b, 625 light-years from Earth, potentially serving as a moon factory. The disk, separate from the star's own disk, offers insights into early planet and moon formation. The young star system is just 2 million years old.

Lawmakers deem ICE's street face scans unconstitutional

Democratic lawmakers have condemned Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) for using facial recognition technology on US streets to verify citizenship, calling it unconstitutional and prone to racial bias. Social media videos show officers scanning faces even when individuals present alternative IDs. Critics warn of privacy threats and wrongful detentions amid the Trump administration's deportation efforts.

Scientists create nanodiamonds using electron beams without heat

Researchers at the University of Tokyo have developed a method to form nanodiamonds from organic molecules using electron beams, bypassing traditional high-pressure and high-temperature processes. This breakthrough protects delicate materials from beam damage and could advance fields like materials science and quantum computing. The discovery challenges long-held assumptions about electron irradiation.

Neanderthal crayons in Crimea suggest ancient symbolic art

Archaeologists have uncovered ochre artefacts in Crimea that show Neanderthals shaped and used them as crayons for drawing over 40,000 years ago. This discovery provides the strongest evidence yet of Neanderthals employing pigments symbolically, challenging previous assumptions about early human creativity. The findings highlight a shared evolutionary capacity for symbolic behavior dating back more than 700,000 years.

OnePlus teases Gemini AI integration for OnePlus 15

October 29, 2025 Theo Klein

OnePlus has announced what it calls the industry's first personalized AI with Google's Gemini for the upcoming OnePlus 15 smartphone. A separate exclusive report reveals the device's global launch date, new colors, and camera features. These details emerged from statements by OnePlus Europe's chief marketing officer.

€360 rotating laptop serves as budget alternative to Surface Studio

A lesser-known brand has introduced a 14-inch rotating touchscreen laptop priced at just €360, providing a cost-effective option for users seeking Surface Studio-like functionality. This portable device converts to various form factors, making it versatile for creative tasks without the high cost of Microsoft's premium offering.

Adobe integrates Google AI models into Creative Cloud

October 29, 2025 Theo Klein

Adobe has announced the integration of third-party AI models from Google into its Creative Cloud suite, expanding beyond its own Firefly technology. This partnership includes access to Gemini, Veo, and Imagen models, along with YouTube integration. The move aims to enhance creative workflows for users.