Google has made two-factor authentication a little simpler to use. It’s now possible to confirm your identity on a phone with a single tap rather than typing a code. At the moment, if you login to Google on an unfamiliar computer and you’re using two-factor authentication, you have to receive a six-digit code though either […]
Think of some recent tech trends and you might name self-driving cars, 3D printing and artificial intelligence. All three have now been combined in an electric vehicle. Olli is a 12-seater self-driving minibus that’s partially operated by IBM Watson, the artificial intelligence system that famously beat two Jeopardy! champions and has since been used for […]
Cable operators say they are willing to compromise in the dispute over third-party cable boxes, but are holding out on letting customers make recordings on such boxes. The proposal comes after a meeting with the Federal Communications Commission, which recently threatened to introduce tighter regulation. The FCC says in principle cable companies should let customers […]
The producer of the Legend of Zelda series has explained why he and colleagues decided against having a female lead in the latest instalment. Eiji Aonuma said making Princess Zelda the main character would leave Link without a purpose. Speculation about a possible female lead has been running for two years since a trailer showed […]
Sony and Microsoft have both confirmed upgraded versions of the PS4 and Xbox One with support for 4K graphics. Sony also detailed some of the high-profile virtual reality games on the way. Sony hasn’t revealed any details about the new machine other than confirming it will be named the Neo, replacing the codename of “PS4.5” […]
A robot that can “decide” to harm humans is the latest attempt to provoke debate about artificial intelligence. But it’s debatable whether there’s any intelligence involved. The “First Law” robot is the work of Alexander Reben, a designer at University of Berkely, California who “designs robots and novel interfaces to explore our evolving relationship with technology.” […]
The Canadian mint now offers a range of Star Trek-themed coins including the world’s first delta-shaped currency. They are legal to spend, though in most cases you’d be behind on the deal. The only coin being sold at face value is a $20 silver coin with the Enterprise on one side. It’s one of three […]
Designs for prosthetic arms based on Deus Ex are to be released royalty-free for use on 3D printers. It follows a man receiving an arm based on Metal Gear Solid. While the MGS arm was a high-tech one-off sponsored by Konami and designed by an artist, the Deus Ex arms will be manufactured by the […]
The built in navigation systems in many Lexus vehicles have been hit by a “purple screen of death.” Despite some initial excitement, the problem appears to be a failed software update rather than hacking. While reports from owners are mixed, it appears the problem may affect all Lexi (to give the correct plural) from 2014 […]
Mattel has released three Star Trek themed Barbie dolls to mark the show’s 50th anniversary. It’s the first time Barbies have come as original Star Trek series characters rather than merely Ken and Barbie dressed up. The dolls are based on Captain Kirk, Mr Spock and Lt Uhura from the original run, as portrayed by […]