Stay connected in the world of tech and media with our weekly round-up. From NASA to Airbnb and more, we have the major updates you want to know. Read on below for the latest news from across the world-wide-web.
NASA’s Psyche Mission Ignites Futuristic Electric Engines
NASA has powered up the electric Hall thrusters on Psyche, a spacecraft now journeying towards a metal-rich asteroid in the main asteroid belt beyond Mars. Launched on October 13, 2023, aboard a SpaceX rocket, Psyche is now in “full cruise” mode. The NASA mission also tested laser-based deep space communications, successfully transmitting a laser signal back to Earth from nearly 10 million miles away. Expected to reach the asteroid by 2029, Psyche will orbit it for two years, sending valuable data back to NASA. Scientists believe Psyche could be the exposed core of a planetesimal, providing unique insights into planetary formation. Ion propulsion, the technology behind Psyche’s thrusters will allow it to reach speeds of up to 124,000 mph, showcasing the potential of ion propulsion for future interplanetary missions.
X Conceals Likes to Promote ‘Edgy’ Engagement
In a major shift, X (formerly known as Twitter) will no longer show what posts users have liked, aiming to protect public image and encourage more “edgy” content engagement. This change, first reported by MacRumors after a flag was discovered in the iOS app, removes the Likes tab from user profiles. Wang mentioned that this update will allow users to like content without worrying about public scrutiny. Since taking over, Musk has made several changes to the platform, including making hiding likes a Premium subscription feature, removing the ability to block users, and stripping headlines from news post previews.
GM and Redwood Materials Partner to Recycle EV Battery Scrap
General Motors (GM) is partnering with Redwood Materials to recycle scrap from its Warren, Ohio, and Spring Hill, Tennessee facilities. Redwood, founded by Tesla co-founder JB Straubel, will handle 100% of the scrap, including key battery components like cathode and anode material. Redwood will transform the scrap into high-quality materials for new EV batteries. This deal gives Redwood recycling partnerships with most major US EV battery manufacturers. The joint venture aims to produce 80GWh of battery cells annually, with a third plant under construction in Michigan. Redwood’s process recovers up to 95% of key metals like nickel, cobalt, and copper. They also recycle EV batteries from Tesla, Ford, and other brands. As early EVs reach the end of their lifespan, Redwood’s role in sustainable battery production is crucial.
Meta’s Ray-Ban Glasses Now Post Instagram Stories for You
Meta’s Ray-Ban smart glasses now allow users to post Instagram stories directly without needing a phone. This new feature is part of several updates, including support for Amazon Music and the meditation app Calm. Users can prompt the glasses to post photos to Instagram using voice commands. Additionally, Calm offers guided meditation and mindfulness exercises on the glasses, with a free three-month subscription for users. The glasses also support Amazon Music, enabling users to play curated playlists with voice commands. These updates follow the addition of Spotify and Apple Music support, and the rollout of new features will be gradual. In April, Meta also introduced AI capabilities that provide context for photos, translate signs, write captions, and identify landmarks.
Airbnb Partners with ChargePoint to Offer Hosts Discounted EV Chargers
Airbnb is partnering with ChargePoint to provide hosts with discounted options for buying, installing, and managing home EV chargers to attract more EV owners as guests. Hosts can purchase EV charging packages, including hardware, installation, and support services, through a new dedicated online store. They can get up to 36% off select ChargePoint models, with prices starting at $399, along with $100 off installation services. The first 1,000 hosts to buy a charger will receive an additional $200 early bird discount from Airbnb. As more customers search for rentals with EV chargers, which increased over 80% from 2022 to 2023, listings with chargers tend to be booked more frequently and earn more income. Hosts can use Airbnb’s new listing editor to easily add amenities like EV charging stations. Guests can activate these chargers using the ChargePoint app, similar to other ChargePoint stations.
Gannett Introduces AI-Generated Summaries for News Articles
The owner of hundreds of US newspapers, Gannett, is implementing AI-generated bullet points. The “key points” labeled at the top of journalists’ stories aim to enhance the reading experience. These summaries, appearing below headlines, are created with automated technology and reviewed by journalists before publication, with a disclaimer noting their AI origin. Currently optional, this feature aims to streamline information delivery and is already live on some USA Today articles.