Scientific American Podcast: 60-Second Tech

Contact Lens Binoculars Are in Sight

Thu, 19 Feb 2015 19:15:00 -0000

Researchers revealed their latest prototype contact lenses that magnify vision almost three times with the wink of an eye. Larry Greenemeier reports

Keurig Coffee Drinkers Hack Back

Fri, 13 Feb 2015 20:00:00 -0000

Users of the K-cup coffee company’s products have counterattacked against its efforts to restrict the brands that their new machines can brew. Larry Greenemeier reports

Radar Makes All Houses Glass

Thu, 05 Feb 2015 16:20:00 -0000

Law enforcement agencies have handheld radar that can “see” through walls via RF signals, raising Fourth Amendment concerns. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smart Keyboard Gets a Charge out of You

Fri, 30 Jan 2015 20:41:00 -0000

Researchers have made a secure, waterproof wireless keyboard that gets charged by the action of your fingertips as you type. Larry Greenemeier reports

Rival Space Internets Vie for Sky Pie

Fri, 23 Jan 2015 19:19:00 -0000

SpaceX’s Elon Musk and fellow tech mogel Greg Wyler both have plans for low Earth orbit satellite networks that could fill in many of the world's current gaps in Internet coverage. Larry Greenemeier reports

Gestures and Eye Movements Will Control Cars

Fri, 16 Jan 2015 10:01:00 -0000

Carmakers are working on ways to let drivers interact with their cars using presumably safer hand gestures and eye movement in addition to voice controls and touch screens. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Puts Its Money Where Your Mouth Is

Mon, 12 Jan 2015 10:23:00 -0000

The social media behemoth buys voice-recognition start-up Wit.ai to prepare for the impending Internet of Things. Larry Greenemeier reports

Teen Inventors Connect DVR to Your Zzzs

Wed, 24 Dec 2014 12:06:00 -0000

British students made a wrist monitor that senses if you nod off and sends a signal to your DVR to record whatever you were watching. Future such devices could control additional household functions. Larry Greenemeier reports

Future Smartphone Could Fall Smartly, Too

Fri, 19 Dec 2014 19:28:00 -0000

Apple got a patent for a system to adjust your falling device in flight to minimize the damage on landing. Larry Greenemeier reports

Recycled Laptop Batteries Bring Light to Power Poor

Thu, 11 Dec 2014 19:51:00 -0000

IBM scientists in India developed an experimental power supply from reusable lithium ion cells salvaged from three-year-old laptop battery packs. Larry Greenemeier reports

NYC School Computers Are MIA

Mon, 08 Dec 2014 19:05:00 -0000

New York City public schools are missing hundreds and possibly thousands of computers, due to poor record keeping, theft, corruption or some combo. Larry Greenemeier reports

Cats Teach Robots to Land on Feet

Fri, 21 Nov 2014 15:56:00 -0000

Training rescue robots to land safely from falls like cats could give them nine lives in the field. Larry Greenemeier reports

Solar Roadways Take Baby Steps

Tue, 18 Nov 2014 16:51:00 -0000

Dutch cyclists can now pedal a path paved with solar panels. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smartphone Case Furthers Unplug Movement

Thu, 06 Nov 2014 14:04:00 -0000

Yondr’s locking gadget-case aims to keep digital distractions down during live performances. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple Pay Perturbs Prying Personal Prospectors

Tue, 28 Oct 2014 09:52:00 -0000

Law enforcement agencies and retailers such as Walmart and Best Buy balk at Apple's operating system and payment app privacy efforts. Larry Greenemeier reports

Tapping the Twitterverse for Meaning

Fri, 10 Oct 2014 20:05:00 -0000

Twitter and M.I.T. have teamed up to launch the Laboratory for Social Machines to analyze the impact of social media messages on society. Larry Greenemeier reports

Drivers While Voice Texting Are Still Distracted

Thu, 02 Oct 2014 11:07:00 -0000

Drivers in a simulator reacted slowly to sudden traffic emergencies regardless of whether they were thumbing texts into smartphones or dictating them to Google Glass. Larry Greenemeier reports

App IDs Other Battery-Eater Apps

Mon, 29 Sep 2014 19:08:00 -0000

More than a million volunteer users of the smarthphone app Carat have helped researchers identify those apps that really suck battery power in both the Android operating system and Apple's iOS. Larry Greenemeier reports

Jet Pack Keeps You Grounded, but Faster

Fri, 19 Sep 2014 21:00:00 -0000

Mini-jet backpack for runners could help military personnel and others get home faster. Larry Greenemeier reports

Bike Helmet Meets Black Box

Fri, 12 Sep 2014 10:35:00 -0000

A future smart bike helmet can track the rider's motion, determine if a crash was likely and call for help if the rider is incapacitated. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple Expected to Set Its Sights on Wearables, Mobile Payments

Fri, 05 Sep 2014 13:00:00 -0000

The rumor mill surrounding the company's latest is in high gear, with possibly a wearable device and smartphone wallet capabilities to be announced next week. Larry Greenemeier reports

We're All Hawking Products Now

Sun, 24 Aug 2014 15:00:00 -0000

Software start-ups getting big bucks to write code that can identify, find and link logos and brands in the billions of images posted daily. Larry Greenemeier reports

Robotic Exoskeletons Giving (and Gaining) Support

Sun, 17 Aug 2014 23:40:00 -0000

Hydraulic-powered, mind-controlled support suits aren’t just for superheroes. Soon you might have to wear one to work. Larry Greenemeier reports

Medical Workers Page Google Glass

Sun, 03 Aug 2014 13:45:00 -0000

The Internet-connected headset is drawing interest in the medical community as a video consultation tool. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Moth Eyes Inspire Different Solar Cell

Fri, 25 Jul 2014 16:55:00 -0000

Moth eyes absorb almost all incident light, thus reducing reflection that predators would notice. Researchers have now used the moth eye structure as the basis of a highly efficient solar absorbing cell. Larry Greenemeier reports

Feline Facial Recognition Overcomes Kitty Overconsumption

Fri, 18 Jul 2014 19:45:00 -0000

A multicat feeder system incorporates facial recognition so that owners can tell if individual cats are eating too much or too little. Larry Greenemeier reports

Hacked E-Cigs May Get around Regulations

Thu, 10 Jul 2014 21:00:00 -0000

Some users are modifying electronic cigarettes to produce stronger flavors, more impressive vapor clouds and to deliver even more nicotine. Larry Greenemeier reports

Software Finds Best Parts of Boring Video

Fri, 27 Jun 2014 19:35:00 -0000

Machine-learning researchers are developing software that automatically searches through long videos to create edited summaries, or personalized trailers. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple, Google Say "Drop That Doughnut!"

Fri, 20 Jun 2014 18:15:00 -0000

Tech companies are offering an ever-increasing number of health monitoring and promoting apps, to keep you in shape and interesting in buying more gadgets. Larry Greenemeier reports

Microsoft Bets on Gestures to Buoy Windows Phones

Sun, 15 Jun 2014 10:00:00 -0000

Microsoft is allegedly adding Kinect-for-Xbox–like gesture recognition to the next generation of Nokia’s Lumia smartphone. Larry Greenemeier reports

Cyber Currencies Get Boost from High-Profile Endorsements

Fri, 06 Jun 2014 20:33:00 -0000

Don't bet all your chips on crypto coins yet, but Apple's app acceptance makes things interesting. Larry Greenemeier reports

Thought-Controlled Flight Reaches the Runway

Thu, 29 May 2014 13:55:00 -0000

Researchers at Munich's Technical University had subjects control flight simulators with brainwaves via an EEG interface. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Encourages Yentas to Share Info about Friends

Thu, 22 May 2014 18:25:00 -0000

The social network hopes to fill in the info blanks for its low-profile members by having their friends supply the details. Larry Greenemeier reports

The Internet Gets Amnesia—in Europe at Least

Fri, 16 May 2014 15:25:00 -0000

A European Union court ruling endorses the right to be forgotten online. The U.S. is less forgiving. Larry Greenemeier reports

Tape Data Storage Makes a Comeback

Mon, 12 May 2014 19:31:00 -0000

Sony's new process lets them store more than 185 terabytes of data on a single tape cartridge. Larry Greenemeier reports

Lytro Camera Refocuses on Upscale Audience

Fri, 25 Apr 2014 09:25:00 -0000

The Lytro Illum camera system allows refocusing of a photo after it's taken. It's faster guts and more professional design make the camera more attractive—and pricier—than its predecessor. Larry Greenemeier reports

Broadcast TV Streamer Aereo Fights for Legal Life

Fri, 18 Apr 2014 12:28:00 -0000

The U.S. Supreme Court will decide whether Aereo can keep streaming live broadcast TV to mobile gadgets and other devices. Larry Greenemeier reports

Being Bad at Video Games Ups Aggression

Thu, 10 Apr 2014 20:45:00 -0000

A custom-designed video game that frustrated players left them at least as aggressive after playing as did other games famous for their violence. Larry Greenemeier reports

Umpires Show Bias for Stars and Strikes

Mon, 07 Apr 2014 10:00:00 -0000

Baseball's expanded review system excludes ball and strike calls, which a study finds to be biased in favor of star players, especially late in games. Larry Greenemeier reports

Greatest Invention in Human History Helps You Avoid Certain People

Fri, 28 Mar 2014 10:45:00 -0000

The era of antisocial networking has begun with the development of apps such as Cloak, which identifies locations of your contacts so you don't have to see them. Larry Greenemeier reports

Eye-Catching Adapter Makes Smartphone Ophthalmic Screener

Fri, 14 Mar 2014 05:40:00 -0000

Researchers are developing adapters that let smartphones take high-quality images of the eye that could be used to remotely screen patients for eye conditions or disease. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Plans Remote Coverage via Drones

Tue, 11 Mar 2014 19:26:00 -0000

A consortium including Facebook and Qualcomm wants to launch solar-powered atmospheric satellite drones that can carry equipment for relaying wireless networks in remote areas that currently have no Internet connections. Larry Greenemeier reports

Contest Takes Aim at Smart Guns

Sun, 02 Mar 2014 20:15:00 -0000

Competitions like the Firearms Challenge could give guns that use radio-frequency tags, biometrics and other tech a push into the mainstream. Larry Greenemeier reports

Mobile Device Thieves Face Off against Kill Switch

Thu, 20 Feb 2014 12:21:00 -0000

California wants to be the first state to mandate antitheft features on mobile devices, but carriers fear lost insurance revenue. Larry Greenemeier reports

Digital Flicks Invade Art House Cinemas

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 11:00:00 -0000

Paramount Pictures is the first of what will be many studios to release major motion pictures in all-digital, forcing small movie houses to upgrade their technology. Larry Greenemeier reports

Kid Smartphone Gives Parents More Control

Fri, 31 Jan 2014 17:48:00 -0000

A new smartphone for youngsters is being marketed for its ability for parents to set parental filters and strict guidelines for use. Larry Greenemeier reports

Your Driving Data Can Reveal Your Routes

Fri, 24 Jan 2014 15:36:00 -0000

Using data about when you drive, the times of your starts and stops, and your speed, insurance companies may be able to also tell where you go, even without GPS. Larry Greenemeier reports

Eye Reflections Could Catch Crooks

Mon, 06 Jan 2014 21:15:08 -0000

Photos that include people now produce images clear enough to make a positive ID of any individuals whose faces are reflected in the corneas of the people in the picture. Larry Greenemeier reports

Big Majority of Facebook Posters Self-Censor

Fri, 20 Dec 2013 18:32:08 -0000

In a study of user behavior, Facebook determined that about 70 percent of people about to post an item engage in some form of self-editing or self-censorship. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Whistleblowers, Courts Reveal Surveillance Secrets

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 19:09:08 -0000

The year brought numerous revelations about government surveillance on ordinary citizens. Do we care? Larry Greenemeier reports.

In Emergency, Smartphone Might Not Know Your Location

Mon, 09 Dec 2013 20:21:08 -0000

Just because your smartphone can bring up your position on a map does not mean that a call to 911 automatically shows responders where you are. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Snapchat Makes Messages Disappear

Thu, 21 Nov 2013 20:35:08 -0000

Snapchat, a time-limited message-sharing app, has allegedly turned down billion-dollar offers from Facebook and Google. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Polled People Ponder Whither Wearable Tech

Fri, 15 Nov 2013 18:21:08 -0000

A Harris poll finds that many Americans wondery how smartwatches and smartglasses would fit into the average person's life. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Are Google's E-mail Scans Wiretapping?

Mon, 04 Nov 2013 18:35:08 -0000

A group of e-mail users have filed suit claiming that Google's scans of Gmails for commercial data gathering purposes is in fact wiretapping. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Let There Be Li-Fi

Mon, 28 Oct 2013 08:03:08 -0000

Researchers see light-emitting diodes as the Internet gateway for tomorrow's wireless gadgets. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smartphone Security Could Be Based On User Behavior

Thu, 26 Sep 2013 20:04:08 -0000

With implicit identification aka implicit authentication, your smartphone would shut down after recognizing it was lost or stolen based on how the new user was fiddling with its functions. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Fido Learns to Fetch from Afar

Fri, 20 Sep 2013 13:37:08 -0000

A small backpack worn by a dog emitted vibrations and tones to remotely guide the canine from one point to point, with no handler present. Larry Greenemeier reports

Home Wireless Network Detects Elderly Tumbles

Fri, 13 Sep 2013 20:09:08 -0000

Wireless signals create a 3-D map of a room and can monitor any unusual movement, such as a fall or unusual period of quiescence. Larry Greenemeier reports.

California Tables Plans for RF Enhanced Driver's License

Fri, 06 Sep 2013 18:55:08 -0000

EDLs contain a RFID chip and let you rapidly reenter the U.S. at a land border without needing a passport. Proponents in California want to alleviate congestion at the Mexico border. Opponents worry about privacy. Larry Greenemeier reports

Professors Still View MOOCs Skeptically

Thu, 29 Aug 2013 21:05:08 -0000

A survey of professors finds that most see online courses as inferior to in-class lessons--but those who have taught online are more open to their potential. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Locked Out? There's an App for That

Fri, 23 Aug 2013 17:26:08 -0000

A service available for Apple users allows you to have a replacement key made based on a digital picture of the original. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Fancy Figuring Ferrets Out Fake Photos

Tue, 20 Aug 2013 19:35:08 -0000

New software identifies doctored images by finding inconsistent shadows, even with complex shapes and uneven surfaces. Larry Greenemeier reports.

Tooth Sensor Watches Your Mouth

Mon, 05 Aug 2013 05:00:08 -0000

An accelerometer-based oral sensory system embedded in a tooth could identify various oral habits based on dental movement. Larry Greenemeier reports

Electronic Skin Could Bring Touchy Robots

Tue, 30 Jul 2013 19:30:08 -0000

Paper-thin sensor networks might someday give machines the ability to feel their surroundings. Larry Greenemeier reports

New TV Channel Gives Dogs Pause

Wed, 17 Jul 2013 21:49:08 -0000

DOGTV, featuring programming to entertain stay-at-home dogs, debuts nationally August 1 on DirecTV. Larry Greenemeier reports

Navy Aims for Electromagnetic Guns

Thu, 11 Jul 2013 20:07:08 -0000

An electromagnetic rail gun would use magnetic fields created by electrical currents to accelerate a sliding metal conductor along two rails. Larry Greenemeier reports

Robotic Companion Animal Comforts Dementia Sufferers

Thu, 27 Jun 2013 07:00:08 -0000

A small group of people with mid- to late-stage dementia appeared happier and less anxious after spending time with a robotic animal programmed to respond to touch and sound. Larry Greenemeier reports

6-Month-Old E-Mails Easy Pickings for Police

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 12:17:08 -0000

The outdated 1986 Electronic Communications Privacy Act considers e-mail "abandoned" and searchable if it's stored for more than 180 days on a server. Larry Greenemeier reports

Safe Water? Ask the Smartphone

Thu, 30 May 2013 14:09:08 -0000

Researchers combine an iPhone with optical filters to create a handheld analyzer for toxins, bacteria and other items of public health importance. Larry Greenemeier reports

E-Tailers Want Amazon and Apple to Set Readers Free

Fri, 24 May 2013 16:26:08 -0000

An industry report says there is no good technological reason for Amazon and Apple to restrict readers to their formats. Larry Greenemeier reports

Grifters Increase Their Internet Attacks

Thu, 16 May 2013 15:22:08 -0000

Consumers were victims of nearly 290,000 online frauds and lost more than $525 million in 2012, up 8 percent from 2011. Larry Greenemeier reports

Bullies Turn Cyberspace Sour

Sat, 11 May 2013 13:20:08 -0000

One in six high school students report being victimized via e-mail, chat rooms, instant messaging, Web sites or texting. Larry Greenemeier reports

Spear Phishers Want Your Info

Thu, 02 May 2013 14:31:08 -0000

The recent AP Twitter account hack looks like an example of a successful spear phishing attack, in which a targeted e-mail duped the news agency's employees. Larry Greenemeier reports

Plan Your Digital Death

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 23:03:08 -0000

Google's Inactive Account Manager allows you to arrange for the deletion of your data upon your demise. Larry Greenemeier reports

Controlling Some Devices Will Be a Snap

Sun, 21 Apr 2013 15:21:08 -0000

Various HP products will soon be controllable by hand gestures. Larry Greenemeier reports

Mental Health-Related Google Searches Decline in Summer

Sat, 13 Apr 2013 13:53:08 -0000

A study tracking Google searches about mental health issues showed substantial decreases in summer versus winter, implying a lessening of symptoms during the longer, warmer days. Larry Greenemeier reports

Amazon X-Ray Aims to End Unidentified Actor Angst

Sun, 07 Apr 2013 23:32:08 -0000

Amazon's X-Ray allows viewers watching certain movies or TV shows on certain devices to touch the screen for instant actor identification. Larry Greenemeier reports

State Seeks to Ban DUI (of Google Glass)

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 12:06:08 -0000

Even before any Google Glass augmented-reality headsets are available to the public, West Virginia is considering a bill to ban drivers from wearing any head-mounted display. Larry Greenemeier reports

Most Laser Pointers Are Too Strong

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 14:25:08 -0000

Federal researchers find that most green laser pointers and half of red ones are stronger than safety standards permit, creating an eye hazard. Larry Greenemeier reports

Shoe Puts Mouth in Foot

Sun, 17 Mar 2013 21:10:08 -0000

Google's new Talking Shoe keeps the wearer connected, but advertisers are likely to run down this as a two-way street. Larry Greenemeier reports

The Eyes Have IT Scrolling

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 20:29:08 -0000

Samsung's next product is expected to have a display that senses eye movement and can scroll accordingly. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smartphone Barometers Create Weather Station Network

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:23:08 -0000

Some Android smartphones and tablets measure atmospheric pressure. More could provide forecasters with important info in areas with few official weather stations. Larry Greenemeier reports

Other Smartphones Pass iPhone Satisfaction Ratings

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 07:15:08 -0000

Apple's latest iPhone ranked behind four different 4G Android handsets in a recent customer satisfaction survey. Larry Greenemeier reports

PayPal's Peers Perplex Potential Purchasers

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 02:00:08 -0000

Despite digital certificate services from major companies like Google, MasterCard and Visa, digital wallets other than PayPal have not penetrated consumer consciousness. Larry Greenemeier reports

Google Maps North Korea

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 20:49:08 -0000

Web users--except those in North Korea itself, where Internet use is restricted--now have a view of the secretive kingdom's landmarks, infrastructure and prison camps. Larry Greenemeier reports

In-Between-Size Phablets Attract Consumers

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 23:16:08 -0000

More than 200 million phablets (smart phone-tablets) will be sold in 2015, twice as many as last year. Larry Greenemeier reports

HAPIfork Monitors Eating Speed

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:33:08 -0000

Sensors on this smart fork lead to a vibration if you're eating too fast. Larry Greenemeier reports

Nielsen and Twitter Team to Track TV

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 15:47:08 -0000

Twitter and ratings agency Nielsen have come up a way to quantify social media buzz for TV programs. Larry Greenemeier reports

Tool Tells True Tweets from Fakes

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 08:08:08 -0000

An algorithm can evaluate tweets within the overall Twitter flow to assess their veracity. Larry Greenemeier reports

Bedbugs Ignore Alleged Ultrasonic Annoyers

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 13:48:08 -0000

Researchers found no proof that ultrasonic devices sold to repel these pesky blood suckers could deliver on that promise. Larry Greenemeier reports

Big Data Project Susses Us out

Thu, 06 Dec 2012 18:08:08 -0000

A project called the "Human Face of Big Data" asks smart-phone users worldwide what they think about beliefs, rituals and hopes. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smart Helmets Could Flag Players at Trauma Risk

Thu, 29 Nov 2012 15:11:08 -0000

Force sensors in headgear could signal whether a hit is strong enough to cause concern should the player receive a second serious blow. Larry Greenemeier reports

Iceland Crowd-Sources Its Constitution

Thu, 15 Nov 2012 18:15:08 -0000

Iceland's parliament will vote on whether to replace its 68-year-old constitution with a version that takes into account suggestions from Twitter, Facebook and Web site comments. Larry Greenemeier reports

Web Sites Share Gas Availability Info

Thu, 08 Nov 2012 20:37:08 -0000

Drivers in the post-Sandy New York metropolitan area have a few high-tech ways to shorten the odds on long gas lines. Larry Greenemeier reports

Listen to Audio via Your Cheekbones

Fri, 19 Oct 2012 12:54:08 -0000

Bone-conduction headphones send good vibrations directly to the cochlea without blocking the ears, thereby also allowing ambient sounds. Larry Greenemeier reports

Left and Right Use Smart Phones for Politics

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 18:15:08 -0000

A Pew Internet & American Life Project poll shows both Republican and Democrat voters are turning to their mobile phones for election information. Larry Greenemeier reports

Technology American Idol Could Hit Small Screen

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 20:50:08 -0000

American Idol judge Simon Cowell and pop star Will.i.am are rumored to be searching for the next great tech entrepreneur. Larry Greenemeier reports

Keeping Facebook Tabs with Ex Is a Double-Edged Sword

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 19:00:08 -0000

Checking out a new old flame on Facebook may make it easier to cope in some ways, but harder in others. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Posts Can Attract Legal Attention

Thu, 20 Sep 2012 07:00:08 -0000

Police may create phony Facebook accounts to root out criminals, but schools and businesses may be restrained from poking into the accounts of students and employees. Larry Greenemeier reports

Is Wi-Fi Sniffing a Crime?

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 11:36:08 -0000

One court case found that wi-fi sniffing was okay, whereas a different case judged it to be illegal. Larry Greenemeier reports

Tablet Devices Keep Austistic People Working

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 20:50:08 -0000

People with autism were kept on task at work with an iPod Touch featuring various checklist and prompting apps. Larry Greenemeier reports

Protect Privacy When Recycling Smart Phones

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 12:06:08 -0000

A factory reset may not be enough to wipe the data from a smart phone you're planning to recycle. Larry Greenemeier reports

Can I, Robot, Mow Your Lawn?

Thu, 23 Aug 2012 08:00:08 -0000

Honda is about to launch a robot to mow your lawn much like the Roomba vacuums your floors. Larry Greenemeier reports

Google: Piracy Accusations Will Lower Search Rankings

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 12:53:08 -0000

As a nod to the entertainment industry, Google is threatening to give poor search-result rankings to sites accused of violating copyright claims. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Argues "Like" Is Free Speech

Thu, 09 Aug 2012 18:50:08 -0000

After people were fired for a Facebook "like," a court ruled that a "like" is not protected free speech. Facebook and the ACLU disagree. Larry Greenemeier reports

Distracted Pedestrian ER Visits Rise

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 12:01:08 -0000

The number of gadget-distracted walkers injured seriously enough to be treated at emergency rooms has quadrupled in the past seven years. Larry Greenemeier reports

YouTube Promotes Anonymity with Face-Blurring Tool

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 13:55:08 -0000

YouTube recently introduced a tool that lets you automatically blur faces in footage you upload to the Web. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple to Repeat on the EPEAT

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 19:39:08 -0000

Reversing a recent decision, Apple will conform to Electronic Products Environmental Asset Tool standards, or EPEAT, after all. Larry Greenemeier reports

Cops Collect Ever More Mobile Device Info

Thu, 12 Jul 2012 11:23:08 -0000

In 2011 law enforcement agencies made more than 1.3 million requests for customer cell phone records. Larry Greenemeier reports

Plastic Electronics Cease Stretching Credulity

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 17:35:08 -0000

An experimental electronic plastic's liquid-metal interior keeps electrical connections intact even after the plastic stretches to more than four times normal size. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Quietly Created New E-Mail Addresses

Thu, 28 Jun 2012 13:44:08 -0000

Facebook surreptitiously modified user profiles to replace their original e-mail addresses with @facebook.com addresses. Larry Greenemeier reports

Microsoft Joins Tablet Fray

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 11:50:08 -0000

Microsoft is not calling its new Surface PC a tablet, but in most meaningful ways it is. Larry Greenemeier reports

Companies Inflate Their Twitter Follow Numbers

Fri, 15 Jun 2012 14:22:08 -0000

Many of the alleged Twitter followers for some companies are bots created by marketers to make the company look more popular. Larry Greenemeier reports

Holographic Guide Coming to NYC Airports

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 12:50:08 -0000

Ava the Avatar is a virtual assistant coming to the three major New York City area airports for a tryout. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Signals Phone Future

Thu, 31 May 2012 21:20:08 -0000

Are Facebook's moves toward producing a smart phone smart or phony? Larry Greenemeier reports

Texts May Beat Phone Calls for Survey Honest Answers

Thu, 24 May 2012 12:27:08 -0000

A study of 600 iPhone users found that people are more likely to provide honest and accurate information via text messages than voice interviews. Larry Greenemeier reports

Most Users Are App Freeloaders

Thu, 17 May 2012 13:52:08 -0000

The vast majority of mobile device users get only free or cheap apps. Larry Greenemeier reports

Look, Computer, No Hands!

Mon, 14 May 2012 12:56:08 -0000

Microsoft hopes its SoundWave will let you interact with your PC using hand gestures in midair rather than on a keyboard. Larry Greenemeier reports

Microsoft Bets Big on B&N's Nook

Thu, 03 May 2012 22:17:08 -0000

Microsoft and Barnes & Noble are teaming up to make a run at the e-reader market leaders. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple Has Liquid Metal in Hand

Mon, 30 Apr 2012 20:12:08 -0000

Apple bought a license for a liquid metal alloy in 2010, and the speculation now is that the next iPhone may incorporate the strong, flexible product in its body. Larry Greenemeier reports

Computer Effects Virtually Resurrect Tupac

Sun, 22 Apr 2012 21:15:08 -0000

Avatar director James Cameron's effects company created a virtual Shakur using physical characteristics and movements captured from previously recorded performances. Larry Greenemeier reports

Microsoft Reaches into Purse for Apps

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 20:21:08 -0000

Microsoft's Windows Phone needs more apps, for which Microsoft--unlike Apple or Google--is paying developers. Larry Greenemeier reports

Flying Car Debuts at New York City Auto Show

Thu, 05 Apr 2012 11:29:08 -0000

Terrafugia's Transition two-seat "roadable aircraft" comes to the New York International Auto Show after a maiden flight. Larry Greenemeier reports

Compressed-Air Car Winds Way to Market

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 20:07:08 -0000

Tata Motors hopes to release its compressed-air car in India by August. Larry Greenemeier reports

Use of Portable Electronics in Flight Still up in the Air

Thu, 22 Mar 2012 18:31:08 -0000

The aviation industry lacks conclusive proof that gadgets do (or don't) interfere with instruments. Larry Greenemeier reports

Embedded Mini Projectors Coming to Smart Phones

Fri, 16 Mar 2012 12:06:08 -0000

Researchers are developing small, energy-efficient and luminous three-color laser light sources into smart phones that will enable the projection of screen images onto flat surfaces. Larry Greenemeier reports

Apple Plans a Cleaner Cloud

Thu, 08 Mar 2012 05:00:08 -0000

Data centers powered by biogas and solar energy could make Apple's Cloud cleaner. Larry Greenemeier reports

Skype Video Chat Arrives for Windows Smart Phones

Thu, 01 Mar 2012 12:33:08 -0000

Microsoft's test version of its new Skype for Windows Phone app lets you call Skype contacts over 3G, 4G and wi-fi networks. Larry Greenemeier reports

Heads Up for Smart Phone Glasses

Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:06:08 -0000

Google is developing a smart phone and heads-up display worn over the ears like a pair of specs. Larry Greenemeier reports

Mimicking Ear Makes Mobile Calls Clear

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 20:29:08 -0000

The earSmart source separation system makes many mobile phone calls easier to understand in noisy situations. Larry Greenemeier reports

Facebook Users Gird for Mobile Ads

Thu, 09 Feb 2012 20:19:08 -0000

Ads could hit Facebook mobile apps as soon as March. Will users mind on the small screen? Larry Greenemeier reports

Quantum Cryptography Comes to Smart Phones

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 16:01:08 -0000

A quantum encryption technique out of Los Alamos National Laboratory could provide smart phone security. Larry Greenemeier reports

Hydrogen and Kinetic Energy Will Keep Phones Ringing

Thu, 26 Jan 2012 19:53:08 -0000

A hydrogen fuel mini cell and a kinetic energy harvester are two new smart phone chargers debuting in 2012. Larry Greenemeier reports

Digital Health Care Puts Control in Consumer Hands

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 22:51:08 -0000

Digital health care apps, especially via smart phones, are offering users unprecedented control over their health behaviors. Larry Greenemeier reports

Service Teaches Computer Code Online Free

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 17:34:08 -0000

A start-up called Codecademy is teaching JavaScript online for free, with 300,000 takers so far. Michael Moyer reports

PC-Makers Bet On Ultrabooks

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 12:08:08 -0000

With tablets all the rage, non-Apple computer manufacturers are banking on the latest small-laptop style: ultrabooks. Larry Greenemeier reports

Passwords Go Bye-Bye by 2017?

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 19:12:08 -0000

IBM predicts biometrics will replace most password use in the next five years. Larry Greenemeier reports

NFL Puts Super Bowl Online

Thu, 22 Dec 2011 18:26:08 -0000

For the first time, the Super Bowl will stream live on February 5--on the Web sites of both the NFL and NBC. Larry Greenemeier reports

Feds Seek Cell Ban Behind the Wheel

Thu, 15 Dec 2011 19:32:08 -0000

Citing accident and injury stats, the National Transportation Safety Board has recommended a nationwide ban on the use of communications devices while driving. Larry Greenemeier reports

Digital Rights Cloud Cloud-Based Streaming

Fri, 09 Dec 2011 20:06:08 -0000

Cloud-based systems allow a single purchase to stream on a variety of devices. But it looks like Apple and the Keystone system will duke it out with everyone else and Ultraviolet. Larry Greenemeier reports

Gaming Tech Might Soon Read Facial Expressions

Thu, 01 Dec 2011 20:14:08 -0000

As gaming tech closes in on the ability to tell players' expressions, can lip-reading artificial intelligence be far behind? Larry Greenemeier reports

Mobile Apps Help Celebrate Thanksgiving

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 07:45:08 -0000

Apps now can tell you when Snoopy will float by at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade or the best way to deep-fry your turkey. Larry Greenemeier reports

Belt Warns Visually Impaired about Obstacles

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 11:53:08 -0000

The Kinecthesia belt has sensors and a series of motors that send vibrations to the wearer to indicate the position of obstacles. Larry Greenemeier reports

iPhone 4S Assistant Siri Does Her Beta Best

Fri, 11 Nov 2011 19:47:08 -0000

Siri, the new iPhone 4S personal assistant, is a step closer to a keyboard-free future. Larry Greenemeier reports

New Insulator Could Help Grid Weather Storms

Thu, 03 Nov 2011 14:04:08 -0000

Better insulation for high-voltage cables could keep them dry during deluges and cut transmission loss. Larry Greenemeier reports

Subjects Move Virtual Chopper with Thoughts

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:35:08 -0000

Subjects using a new software package were able to control the movement of a virtual helicopter through an obstacle course using their thoughts alone. Larry Greenemeier reports

Smarter Silicon Slicing Could Make Solar Competitive

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 13:11:08 -0000

M.I.T. professor Ely Sachs gave up his faculty position to go all-in on a company that he believes can make solar energy competitive with coal via smart photovoltaic manufacturing. Larry Greenemeier reports

Cybersecurity Threats to Pick Up Steam in 2012

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:00:08 -0000

A new Georgia Tech Information Security Center report cites search engines, mobile phones and personal information as prime targets for hackers. Larry Greenemeier reports

Indoor GPS Makes Strides

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:52:08 -0000

Efforts to develop an indoor version of GPS use smart phones and existing wi-fi. Larry Greenemeier reports

Adhesive Lets 3-D Microchips Go Deep

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 20:57:08 -0000

IBM and 3M have come up with an adhesive that will allow them to stack up to 100 semiconductors onto a single microchip. Larry Greenemeier reports

Slower Wi-Fi Frequencies Stretch Smart Phone Batteries

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 04:30:08 -0000

Researchers have developed a way to put smart phones almost to sleep to stretch battery life but keep the phones alert for incoming info. Rose Eveleth reports

Smart Phone Antennas Could Double Network Capacity

Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:06:08 -0000

A clever way to send and receive both sides of a smart phone conversation on a single frequency could double wireless network capacity. Larry Greenemeier reports

Graphene Electronics Could Make Internet Way Zippier

Thu, 01 Sep 2011 17:02:08 -0000

Nobel laureates added metallic nanostructures to graphene to vastly boost its photodetector qualities. Larry Greenemeier reports

Navy Uses Waves to Power Sensors

Thu, 25 Aug 2011 05:00:08 -0000

An array of buoys that track vessel movement off the coast of New Jersey is being powered by ocean waves. Larry Greenemeier reports

Robot Rescuers Help Peace of Mine

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 10:21:08 -0000

Sandia National Labs demonstrates its improved mine rescue robot. Larry Greenemeier reports

Digital Entrepreneur Wants to Save Books

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 00:10:08 -0000

Brewster Kahle, who has pioneered efforts to digitize written information, wants to save a hard copy of every book. Larry Greenemeier reports

Bridge Sensors Could Save Travelers

Thu, 04 Aug 2011 10:40:08 -0000

On the fourth anniversary of the Minneapolis I-35W bridge collapse, scientists and engineers are working to make bridges smarter

Swimmer Plans on Electronics to Shake Sharks

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 00:05:08 -0000

Diana Nyad, veteran open-water distance swimmer, plans to swim from Cuba to the Florida Keys while being protected by an electronic device called Shark Shield. Larry Greenemeier reports

ATMs Branch Out

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 00:03:08 -0000

The newest electronic tellers come with built-in lie detectors, rely on biometric security and let you trade cash for gold. Larry Greenemeier reports

Kids Say Where Tech Should Go

Thu, 14 Jul 2011 10:53:08 -0000

A survey of children around the world found out what the kids would most like their technology to be able to do next. Larry Greenemeier reports

Parents Rummage through Facebook for Inside Dope

Thu, 07 Jul 2011 11:00:08 -0000

Parents use social networks to gain intel on their kids' friends and on those kids' parents. Larry Greenemeier reports