Theo Klein

Professors at University of Illinois call out AI-generated student apologies

In a University of Illinois introductory data science course, professors discovered widespread cheating on attendance checks and received AI-generated apologies from students. The incident, involving over 1,000 students, highlights tensions in higher education amid AI use. Instructors addressed the class on October 17, treating it as a life lesson without disciplinary action.

Scientists make germanium superconducting for the first time

October 30, 2025 Theo Klein

Researchers have achieved superconductivity in germanium, a common semiconductor, by precisely doping it with gallium atoms. This breakthrough, detailed in a new study, could enable more efficient quantum devices and cryogenic electronics. The material conducts electricity with zero resistance at 3.5 Kelvin.

OpenAI eyes $1 trillion IPO despite quarterly losses

OpenAI is preparing for a potential initial public offering that could value the company at up to $1 trillion, with filings possibly in late 2026. CEO Sam Altman has indicated that going public is the most likely path due to massive capital needs. However, the company reported significant losses, estimated at $11.5 billion in its latest quarter.

Magnetic gel aids efficient kidney stone removal in pig tests

Researchers at Stanford University have developed a magnetic gel that coats kidney stone fragments, allowing for their removal in bulk using a magnetic wire. Tested successfully in pigs, the technique aims to reduce tissue damage and the need for repeated surgeries compared to standard methods. Experts praise it as a promising alternative to current procedures.

Dinosaur skeleton settles debate over tiny T. rex fossils

A complete dinosaur skeleton has provided strong evidence that fossils long debated as juvenile Tyrannosaurus rex belong to a separate species called Nanotyrannus. Researchers analyzed a specimen from the 'Duelling Dinosaurs' site, confirming it as a fully grown individual distinct from T. rex. The findings challenge decades of palaeontological arguments.

Canva unveils free unified Affinity app with paid AI tools

October 30, 2025 Theo Klein

Canva has launched a new version of its Affinity creative software, combining Photo, Designer, and Publisher into a single free app called Affinity by Canva. Core features are available at no cost, while generative AI tools require a $120 annual subscription. This update follows Canva's acquisition of Affinity early last year.

Figma acquires AI-powered content platform Weavy

Design software company Figma has purchased Weavy, an AI-powered content platform. The acquisition aims to enhance Figma's AI editing tools. Weavy will be integrated into Figma as Figma Weave.

Pocket-sized SSD delivers fast transfers and fingerprint security

A new pocket-sized SSD promises rapid data transfers of up to 450MB/s read speeds, fitting easily into a top pocket despite its limited storage capacity. The device includes fingerprint security for added protection. TechRadar highlighted these features in a recent review.

Twin black hole mergers test Einstein's general relativity

Two black hole collisions detected in late 2024 have provided unprecedented tests of Einstein's general theory of relativity. The events, captured by the LIGO-Virgo-KAGRA Collaboration, revealed unusual spins and possible second-generation black holes. These detections confirm theoretical predictions with high precision and probe for new particles.

JWST uncovers chaotic early galaxies in young universe

Astronomers using the James Webb Space Telescope have found that the universe's first galaxies were turbulent and disorderly, far from the stable structures seen today. Led by University of Cambridge researchers, the study examined over 250 galaxies from when the universe was 800 million to 1.5 billion years old. These findings challenge prior views and show a transition from cosmic chaos to ordered formation.