EPFL's "Beyond Manual Dexterity" Pushes the Boundaries of Robotic Grasping

Research videos don’t typically have thrilling narratives, but occasionally, one captures attention with groundbreaking innovations. “Beyond Manual Dexterity” is such a video, showcasing a highly advanced robotic gripper that continually impresses as you watch. This video debuted alongside a research paper at IEEE’s International Conference on Robotics and Automation in Rotterdam, highlighting work from Switzerland’s EPFL.

Advancing Robotic Grasping Techniques

The EPFL team’s research focuses on expanding the capabilities of robotic hands, enabling them to grasp a wider range of objects beyond conventional limitations. According to the researchers, the integration of deep learning has significantly improved dexterous manipulation in multi-fingered robots. However, grasping objects in cluttered environments remains a largely untapped area.

Breaking Free from Natural Limitations

For years, roboticists have taken inspiration from nature, with many robots resembling human hands or animal movements. While this biological mimicry has laid the foundation for modern robotics, it also imposes certain limitations. The EPFL research challenges these constraints, asking why robotic hands must be bound by the same physical limitations as their natural counterparts.

A New Era of Robotic Design

The robotic hand in “Beyond Manual Dexterity” bends in ways that a human hand cannot, even detaching itself to crawl toward objects—actions that might seem unsettling. However, by pushing past the limitations of traditional design, this research opens up exciting possibilities for future robotics. These advancements could revolutionize how robots handle objects in complex environments.

Future Implications for Robotics

While scaling this technology for widespread use presents challenges, the research is already generating significant interest. EPFL's innovative approach to robotic grasping is set to influence the future of dexterous robotics, showing what’s possible when designers move beyond conventional models.

This groundbreaking work is a glimpse into the future of robotics, where imagination drives innovation beyond natural constraints.

Valve's Unique Anti-Cheat System in Deadlock Turns Cheaters Into Frogs

Valve has taken an innovative and entertaining approach to combat cheating in its new hero shooter, Deadlock. As part of the latest update, the company introduced its first anti-cheat system, offering players a unique way to deal with cheaters.

Two Options for Handling Cheaters

When the anti-cheat system detects a rulebreaker, the opposing team is given a choice. They can either have the cheater banned immediately, ending the match on the spot, or opt for a more humorous route: transforming the cheater into a frog for the remainder of the game. While Valve will eventually ban the cheater, this playful twist adds a fun layer of justice to the gaming experience.

Impact on Players and Matches

Matches affected by cheating won’t count toward other players in the lobby, ensuring that honest participants aren’t penalized. This creative approach not only addresses the problem but also adds an extra element of enjoyment for those on the receiving end of a cheater’s antics.

Valve's Innovative Approach to Cheating

This frog transformation technique continues Valve’s trend of creative problem-solving in multiplayer gaming. Instead of simply banning cheaters, the company adds humor to an otherwise frustrating situation, providing players with a memorable experience.

Valve’s anti-cheat system in Deadlock sets a new standard, proving that dealing with cheaters doesn't always have to be punitive—it can be fun too.

OpenAI Plans to Raise ChatGPT Subscription to $22 Per Month by Year-End, with Future Hikes Expected

OpenAI is set to increase the monthly subscription price for ChatGPT to $22 by the end of the year, with plans to gradually raise the cost to $44 over the next five years, according to recent reports. This pricing strategy comes as part of the company’s efforts to scale its revenue and address financial challenges.

Revenue Projections and Financial Challenges

According to documents obtained by The New York Times, OpenAI generated $300 million in revenue in August 2024, and the company is aiming for $3.7 billion in sales by the end of the year. Despite this substantial revenue growth, OpenAI expects to incur a loss of $5 billion this year due to high expenses, including salaries, rent, and operational costs.

Investment and Valuation Strategy

To mitigate its financial shortfall, OpenAI is seeking new investments. The company is raising funds based on a $150 billion valuation, with the potential to attract as much as $7 billion in new investments. This funding drive is crucial to sustaining the company's operations and supporting its growth trajectory.

Transition to a For-Profit Model

In an effort to attract more investors, OpenAI is reportedly shifting from its original non-profit structure to a for-profit business model. This change will remove caps on investor returns, giving investors more flexibility and potentially increasing the company’s appeal to new stakeholders.

Conclusion

As OpenAI navigates its ambitious growth plans, both existing users and prospective investors will likely feel the impact of higher subscription fees and evolving business strategies. While the price increases may affect user accessibility, they are part of a broader effort to secure the company's financial stability and long-term success in the competitive AI market.

Google Rolls Out Gemini-Generated Smart Replies for Gmail: A Major AI Upgrade

Google has officially introduced a powerful new feature for Gmail users: Gemini-generated smart replies. This update enhances the existing smart reply feature, leveraging generative AI to create more personalized and context-aware responses. First announced during the rollout of Gemini side panels for Gmail and other Workspace apps, this AI-driven feature promises to revolutionize how users interact with their inbox.

What Are Gemini Smart Replies?

Since 2017, Gmail has offered smart replies, providing quick, pre-written responses to emails. While convenient, these machine-generated replies have often been limited to brief, generic responses like "Got it" or "Sounds good." However, Google's new Gemini smart replies take things up a notch by considering the full context of the email thread, producing more detailed, relevant, and personalized responses.

While users might still need to tweak the replies to align them more closely with their personal tone, Gemini's smart replies are far more conversational and accurate. When the feature becomes available in your Gmail app, you’ll find several response options at the bottom of your screen while replying. Simply hover over each option to preview the detailed response before selecting the most appropriate one.

Who Gets Access to Gemini Smart Replies?

This new AI-powered feature isn't available to everyone just yet. You’ll need to have a Gemini Business, Enterprise, Education, or Education Premium add-on, or be subscribed to Google One AI Premium to access Gemini smart replies. Google has stated that it may take up to 15 days for the feature to appear in your Gmail app.

How to Enable Gemini Smart Replies

To make sure you’re ready for Gemini smart replies, check your Gmail app settings. Navigate to the Settings page and ensure that "Smart features and personalization" is enabled. This will allow the AI-driven smart replies to function, bringing added convenience and personalization to your Gmail experience.

Why This Matters

The introduction of Gemini-generated smart replies is part of Google’s broader efforts to integrate AI more deeply into its services. By providing smarter, more relevant responses, the company aims to help users save time and improve communication efficiency. For professionals managing large volumes of email, this feature could significantly streamline the process of replying to routine messages, while still maintaining a personal touch.

Final Thoughts

Gemini smart replies mark a significant leap forward for Gmail's AI capabilities. With more thoughtful, context-aware suggestions, users can respond more efficiently while maintaining a higher level of personalization in their communications. If you’re using a supported version of Gmail, this feature could dramatically improve your email experience, making it easier to handle your inbox, especially when you’re short on time.

Make sure to keep an eye on your Gmail app and activate the required settings to take full advantage of this exciting new feature!

Intel Declines ARM’s Offer to Buy Its Core Product Division Amid Industry Shifts

Intel has faced significant challenges over the past year, so much so that ARM, a major player in chip design, reportedly made an offer to acquire Intel’s core product unit. According to Bloomberg, ARM expressed interest in purchasing Intel’s crown jewel product group, but Intel quickly turned down the inquiry, stating the division wasn’t for sale.

ARM’s Focus on Intel’s Core Product Group

Intel's product division, which produces PC, server, and networking chips, was ARM’s primary target. Bloomberg reports that ARM had no interest in Intel’s chip manufacturing foundry, which is also a key component of Intel’s business. Both ARM and Intel have declined to comment on the matter.

Intel’s Declining Fortunes

Intel's financial troubles have been escalating for some time, but the past year has seen particularly dramatic declines. In Q2 2024, Intel reported a net loss of $1.6 billion, prompting the company to announce a significant restructuring plan, which includes laying off 15,000 employees and cutting $10 billion in costs. The company’s market value has been halved in the past year, dropping to $102.3 billion.

Intel also revealed plans to restructure its struggling foundry business, aiming to transform it into an independent subsidiary. The foundry, which focuses on manufacturing chips, has been underperforming in recent years, further contributing to Intel’s ongoing challenges.

ARM's Unlikely Move to Acquire Intel

ARM is primarily known for selling processor designs to companies like Qualcomm and Apple, particularly for mobile devices. If ARM had succeeded in purchasing Intel's product division, it would have marked a significant shift in ARM’s business model, as ARM currently doesn’t manufacture chips itself. However, this scenario seems improbable given Intel’s firm rejection.

Despite Intel’s current challenges, the offer from ARM highlights Intel's ongoing importance in the tech industry. ARM’s interest in Intel's product group suggests that Intel still holds valuable assets that competitors are eager to acquire.

Rivals Are Circling

Intel's vulnerability has also attracted attention from other major players. Qualcomm, another key competitor, reportedly expressed interest in acquiring Intel as well. Any potential mergers involving ARM and Qualcomm would likely face significant regulatory hurdles, but the fact that such offers exist demonstrates the increasing competition and pressure on Intel.

Potential Investment Opportunities

In response to these financial difficulties, Intel is exploring other avenues to raise funds. According to Bloomberg, Apollo Global Management, the owner of Yahoo and Engadget, has offered to invest up to $5 billion in Intel. Additionally, Intel plans to sell part of its stake in chip-maker Altera to private equity investors, providing another means to boost its financial standing.

Conclusion: Intel’s Next Moves in a Competitive Market

Intel’s decision to reject ARM’s offer reflects the company's commitment to maintaining control of its core product division, despite its recent struggles. However, with competitors circling and financial challenges mounting, Intel will need to explore new strategies to regain its footing in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Investment opportunities and restructuring plans may offer a path forward, but Intel’s future remains uncertain as rivals continue to close in.

Fujifilm GFX100S II Review: Top-Tier Performance at a Competitive Price

Fujifilm has introduced the GFX100S II, an upgrade to the popular GFX100S, offering the same high-quality images found in the flagship GFX100 II but at a lower price. With a new sensor, improved autofocus, and enhanced features, the GFX100S II is positioned as a powerful alternative for professional photographers.

Key Features of the Fujifilm GFX100S II

The GFX100S II retains its lightweight and compact design, weighing just 1.9 pounds—slightly lighter than its predecessor. The camera is equipped with dual control dials, a mode dial, and a focus selector switch. A 3.2-inch rear display tilts up, down, and to the right, allowing flexibility during shooting. Additionally, the viewfinder has been significantly improved with a 5.76 million-dot resolution for sharper, clearer images.

Although similar in appearance to the original model, the GFX100S II comes with several notable updates:

• New sensor and processor for enhanced image quality and performance.
• Improved autofocus capabilities for better tracking of moving subjects.
• USB-SSD connectivity for faster burst shooting and video capture.

Performance and Autofocus

The GFX100S II boasts impressive improvements in autofocus, offering better tracking for fast-moving subjects. It supports AI-based face and eye tracking and has added subject tracking modes for animals, vehicles, and more. These features, combined with the camera's burst shooting rate of up to 7 frames per second, make it a significant upgrade from the previous model.

In-body image stabilization has also been improved, now offering eight stops of shake reduction. This enables photographers to capture sharper images in low-light conditions or with slower shutter speeds, reducing the need for a tripod.

Image Quality

Professional photographers will appreciate the 100-megapixel sensor that delivers exceptional image quality with 16-bit RAW files, offering 14 stops of dynamic range. This level of detail ensures outstanding performance in both bright and low-light conditions, allowing photographers to capture every nuance of their scenes. The high resolution also supports large-format printing, making it ideal for landscape and portrait photography.

Fujifilm’s color science continues to shine with the GFX100S II, producing accurate and pleasing skin tones in portrait work. The camera also comes with a variety of film simulations like Velvia and Acros, giving photographers creative control over their images straight out of the camera.

Video Capabilities

While the GFX100S II excels in photography, its video features are less impressive. The camera records in 4K 10-bit with no crop but suffers from pixel binning, which reduces sharpness. Rolling shutter distortion remains an issue, particularly during fast motion. However, Fujifilm’s color science and support for F-Log modes do help in delivering decent video quality for those who occasionally shoot video.

Battery Life and Connectivity

Battery life has been slightly improved, with the GFX100S II capable of capturing up to 540 shots on a single charge. The camera also includes dual SD UHS-II card slots, mic and headphone ports, USB-C connectivity, and a micro HDMI connection. A new feature, USB-SSD connectivity, allows photographers to take advantage of faster burst shooting and high-quality video capture.

Comparison with Fujifilm GFX100 II

The GFX100S II is priced at $5,000, making it a more affordable option compared to the $7,500 GFX100 II. Both cameras offer identical image quality, but the GFX100 II provides additional features like a CFexpress card slot for faster data transfer and a slightly larger body for better handling. However, for most photographers, the GFX100S II’s reduced price and compact design will be more than sufficient.

Final Verdict: Is the GFX100S II Worth It?

The Fujifilm GFX100S II is an outstanding medium format camera, delivering top-tier image quality, improved autofocus, and solid performance at a competitive price. It’s the most affordable option in the medium format space, making it an excellent choice for professional photographers who prioritize detail and image quality.

While its video capabilities may not satisfy filmmakers, the GFX100S II shines in portrait and landscape photography, offering a balance of performance and value that is hard to beat. If you're looking for a high-resolution camera without the hefty price tag of the GFX100 II, the GFX100S II is a fantastic option.

Microsoft's Recall Feature for Copilot+ AI PCs: Enhanced Security and Privacy Measures Ahead of Windows 11 Launch

Microsoft's Recall feature, designed for Copilot+ AI PCs, faced swift criticism upon its introduction. The tool is intended to allow users to retrieve any task or document they’ve worked on by taking continuous screenshots of their PC activity. However, critics raised concerns about the lack of secure storage for these screenshots. In response, Microsoft delayed the feature's rollout for Windows Insider beta testers and announced several security upgrades in June.

Key Updates to Microsoft Recall's Security Framework

Ahead of the November launch of Windows 11, Microsoft has released further details on Recall’s security and privacy measures. The company has emphasized that the snapshots and related data will be protected by VBS Enclaves—a "software-based trusted execution environment (TEE)" embedded within the host application. Importantly, Recall will now be opt-in, meaning users must actively enable it during the Windows setup process. Additionally, users can choose to disable or completely remove the feature if desired.

Key security highlights include:

• Encryption as a core feature: Recall will encrypt all screenshot data, ensuring that sensitive information remains protected.
• Windows Hello integration: Biometric authentication via Windows Hello will be required to access and manage Recall settings.
• Privacy controls: By default, Recall will not store private browsing data from major browsers like Edge, Chrome, and Firefox. Sensitive content filtering will also be enabled to prevent storage of confidential data such as passwords or credit card details.

Microsoft's Focus on Security Testing

In light of earlier criticisms, Microsoft has introduced measures to prevent misuse or security breaches. Rate-limiting and anti-hammering protocols have been built into the system to protect against malware and unauthorized access. Furthermore, if a biometric sensor is compromised, users can still use a PIN as a fallback option, reducing the risk of data loss.

David Weston, Microsoft's VP of OS and Enterprise Security, explained, "Recall currently supports PIN as a fallback method only after Recall is configured, and this is to avoid data loss if a secure sensor is damaged."

Independent Security Audits and Internal Testing

Microsoft has subjected Recall to rigorous security testing, including a review by a third-party vendor that conducted a penetration test and an overall security design assessment. Additionally, Microsoft’s own Offensive Research and Security Engineering (MORSE) team has spent months testing the feature to ensure its security resilience.

Learning from Early Criticisms

Microsoft's response to the initial backlash shows its commitment to tightening Recall’s security. The main concern—that the Recall database was easily accessible from other local accounts—has been addressed through encryption and heightened security measures. Despite this, questions remain about why these issues weren’t anticipated earlier in the development process.

With enhanced privacy and security measures now in place, Microsoft is cautiously preparing for Recall's official launch with the next major Windows 11 update. The company is positioning itself to ensure users feel confident about the safety and control they have over their data while using the feature.

Conclusion

As Microsoft gears up for the November release of Windows 11, the Recall feature has undergone significant upgrades aimed at enhancing both security and privacy. With encryption, biometric authentication, and user control at the forefront, Microsoft hopes to ease earlier concerns and deliver a secure, user-friendly experience with Recall.

This proactive approach to user data security reflects Microsoft’s long-term commitment to safeguarding privacy in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.