Swarm of tiny drones explores unknown environments
Researchers have presented a swarm of tiny drones that can explore unknown environments completely by themselves. This work forms a significant step in the field of swarm robotics.
Read moreComputers and Internet
Boosting the popularity of social media posts
Computer scientists created a new algorithm to recommend tags for social media posts which should boost the popularity of the post in question. This algorithm takes into account more kinds of information than previous algorithms with a similar goal. The result is a measurably improved view count for posts which use the tags recommended by this new algorithm. Such research could be useful commercially and for other researchers who study online behavior.
Read moreAchieving quantum supremacy
Researchers have made good on their claim to quantum supremacy. Using 53 entangled quantum bits ('qubits'), their Sycamore computer has taken on — and solved — a problem considered intractable for classical computers.
Read morePre-programmed microfluidic systems offer new control capabilities
Researchers have discovered how to pre-program microfluidic systems in a way that controls how fluids flow and mix throughout the micropipes. The result? A step toward smartly designed microfluidic systems that behave like a computer chip without relying on external components.
Read moreNatural language interface for data visualization debuts
A team has developed FlowSense, which lets those who may not be experts in machine learning create highly flexible visualizations from almost any data.
Read moreExtending Wi-Fi range for smart-home devices
A group of researchers has created a protocol that significantly extends the distance a Wi-Fi enabled device can send and receive signals. The engineering innovation requires no new hardware to enhance the signal range for 'Internet of things' devices, like a door sensor or motion detector, but can extend the distance these devices can be installed from a Wi-Fi access point by more than 60 meters, according to test results.
Read moreStudy warns of security gaps in smart light bulbs
Smart bulbs are expected to be a popular purchase this holiday season. But could lighting your home open up your personal information to hackers? Now researchers have conducted a review of the security holes that exist in popular smart-light brands. According to the analysis, the next prime target could be that smart bulb that shoppers buy this coming holiday season.
Read moreMagnetics with a twist: Scientists find new way to image spins
Researchers have put a new spin on measuring and controlling spins in nickel oxide, with an eye toward improving electronic devices' speed and memory capacity.
Read moreOverall time on social media is not related to teen anxiety and depression
New research found that the amount of time spent on social media is not directly increasing anxiety or depression in teenagers.
Read morePushy robots learn the fundamentals of object manipulation
Researchers have compiled a dataset that captures the detailed behavior of a robotic system physically pushing hundreds of different objects. Using the dataset — the largest and most diverse of its kind — researchers can train robots to 'learn' pushing dynamics that are fundamental to many complex object-manipulation tasks, including reorienting and inspecting objects, and uncluttering scenes.
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