Science and Technology News: 2 November 2021

SciTech
2 November, 2021

Latest Science Technology news:

  1. Intel has been pretty tight-lipped about its upcoming Arc Alchemist GPU, but some recently leaked information may finally shed some light on the graphics card’s physical features. Techradar
  2. Intel has shared a new document that lists the DDR5 memory kits validated on the chipmaker’s Alder Lake platform that will soon vie for a spot on our list of Best CPUs for gaming. Tomshardware
  3. A clearer understanding of how a type of brain cell known as astrocytes function and can be emulated in the physics of hardware devices, may result in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning that autonomously self-repairs and consumes much less energy than the technologies currently do, according to a team of Penn State researchers. Techxplore
  4. Despite Facebook’s attempts at verifying suspiciously popular accounts, it isn’t perfect (to say the least). The Verge has reported that the company has mistakenly verified a Facebook fan page for Elon Musk as Musk’s own official account. On top of that, it appears to be run by a Bitcoin scammer” Yahoo News
  5. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said meteor showers can be observed through the naked eyed and there is no need to use special equipment such as telescopes or binoculars. MB.com
  6. WhatsApp has added three new features to the web version of the platform. The company has announced that users can now edit photos on the web version too and preview links as well. It is also adding a new sticker suggestion feature. Indian Express
  7. Oly Sport, a unique metaverse platform combining horse racing, NFTs, blockchain, and real estate, has raised $2 million in its strategic sales round lasting 10 days, joined by leading blockchain investors. Digital Journal
  8. Tired of Diwali Cleaning. Get a robotic home cleaner. Buy on Amazon –iRobot Roomba i7 (i7156) Wi-Fi Connected Robot Vacuum with Power-Lifting Suction and Dual Multi-Surface Rubber Brushes. Price: ₹44,900.00, You Save: ₹27,000.00 (38%). Price may vary depending on day of access.

 

Compiled from Google Trends

 

Startup
24 February, 2024

Byju’s, once heralded as a flagship in India’s edtech sector, is grappling with severe financial and operational challenges, marked by a dramatic valuation drop. The company, which sought to stabilize its operations and finances, is now raising funds at a valuation significantly lower than its peak. This development comes amid efforts to address a substantial debt burden, with Byju’s proposing a repayment plan for its $1.2 billion loan. Investor confidence appears shaken, with some stakeholders pushing for drastic changes in leadership to navigate the crisis effectively. The turmoil reflects broader sectoral pressures and raises questions about the sustainability of high-growth trajectories in the edtech industry

Energy
10 February, 2024

Australia’s energy market is witnessing significant transitions and investments aimed at bolstering renewable energy infrastructure and securing gas supplies. Key developments include a $179 million investment by the Queensland Government for community battery projects, Santos’ $5.7 billion gas pipeline project following a legal battle win, and a $206 million energy savings package for NSW households. Additionally, the Australian government has secured new gas supply deals to support the east coast market, emphasizing the role of gas in transitioning to a renewable grid.

India 2024
9 February, 2024

The latest opinion polls, including the Mood of the Nation survey by India Today, predict a comfortable victory for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s BJP and its allies in the National Democratic Alliance (NDA), with a projected win of 335 Lok Sabha seats in the 2024 general elections. This forecast suggests a slight decrease from the 2019 elections but still ensures a majority. The survey, involving interviews with over 149,000 respondents, reflects Modi’s enduring popularity based on his nationalist policies and economic reforms. Other polls echo these findings, although seat projections vary slightly. The opposition INDIA alliance is expected to secure a significant number of seats, yet not enough to challenge the NDA’s majority. These predictions highlight a political landscape that remains largely favorable to Modi and the BJP as the election approaches