Last week, this space was all about OpenAIs 12 days of shipmas. This week, the spotlight is on Google, which has been speeding toward the holiday by shipping or announcing its own flurry of products and updates. The combination of stuff here is pretty monumental, not just for a single company, but I think because it speaks to the power of the technology industryeven if it does trigger a personal desire that we could do more to harness that power and put it to more noble uses.To start, last week Google Introduced Veo, a new video generation model, and Imagen 3, a new version of its image generation model.Then on Monday, Google announced a breakthrough in quantum computing with its Willow chip. The company claims the new machine is capable of a standard benchmark computation in under five minutes that would take one of todays fastest supercomputers 10 septillion (that is, 1025) years. you may recall that MIT Technology Review covered some of the Willow work after researchers posted a paper preprint in August. But this week marked the big media splash. It was a stunning update that had Silicon Valley abuzz. (Seriously, I have never gotten so many quantum computing pitches as in the past few days.)Google followed this on Wednesday with even more gifts: a Gemini 2 release, a Project Astra update, and even more news about forthcoming agents called Mariner, an agent that can browse the web, and Jules, a coding assistant.First: Gemini 2. Its impressive, with a lot of performance updates. But I have frankly grown a little inured by language-model performance updates to the point of apathy. Or at least near-apathy. I want to see them do something.So for me, the cooler update was second on the list: Project Astra, which comes across like an AI from a futuristic movie set. Google first showed a demo of Astra back in May at its developer conference, and it was the talk of the show. But, since demos offer companies chances to show off products at their most polished, it can be hard to tell whats real and whats just staged for the audience. Still, when my colleague Will Douglas Heaven recently got to try it out himself, live and unscripted, it largely lived up to the hype. Although he found it glitchy, he noted that those glitches can be easily corrected. He called the experience stunning and said it could be generative AIs killer app.On top of all this, Will notes that this week Google DeepMind CEO (the companys AI division) Demis Hassabis was in Sweden to receive his Nobel Prize. And what did you do with your week?Making all this even more impressive, the advances represented in Willow, Gemini, Astra, and Veo are ones that just a few years ago many, many people would have said were not possibleor at least not in this timeframe.A popular knock on the tech industry is that it has a tendency to over-promise and under-deliver. The phone in your pocket gives the lie to this. So too do the rides I took in Waymos self-driving cars this week. (Both of which arrived faster than Ubers estimated wait time. And honestly its not been that long since the mere ability to summon an Uber was cool!) And while quantum has a long way to go, the Willow announcement seems like an exceptional advance; if not a tipping point exactly, then at least a real waypoint on a long road. (For what its worth, Im still not totally sold on chatbots. They do offer novel ways of interacting with computers, and have revolutionized information retrieval. But whether they are beneficial for humanityespecially given energy debts, the use of copyrighted material in their training data, their perhaps insurmountable tendency to hallucinate, etc.is debatable, and certainly is being debated. But Im pretty floored by this weeks announcements from Google, as well as OpenAIfull stop.)And for all the necessary and overdue talk about reining in the power of Big Tech, the ability to hit significant new milestones on so many different fronts all at once is something that only a company with the resources of a Google (or Apple or Microsoft or Amazon or Meta or Baidu or whichever other behemoth) can do.All this said, I dont want us to buy more gadgets or spend more time looking at our screens. I dont want us to become more isolated physically, socializing with others only via our electronic devices. I dont want us to fill the air with carbon or our soil with e-waste. I do not think these things should be the price we pay to drive progress forward. Its indisputable that humanity would be better served if more of the tech industry was focused on ending poverty and hunger and disease and war.Yet every once in a while, in the ever-rising tide of hype and nonsense that pumps out of Silicon Valley, epitomized by the AI gold rush of the past couple of years, there are moments that make me sit back in awe and amazement at what people can achieve, and in which I become hopeful about our ability to actually solve our larger problemsif only because we can solve so many other dumber, but incredibly complicated ones. This week was one of those times for me.Now read the rest of The DebriefThe News Robotaxi adoptionis hitting a tipping point. But also,GM is shutting down its Cruise robotaxi division. Hereshow to use OpenAIs new video editing toolSora. Blueskyhas an impersonator problem. The AI hype machine iscoming under government scrutiny.The ChatEvery week, I talk to one of MIT Technology Reviews journalists to go behind the scenes of a story they are working on. This week, I hit up James ODonnell, who covers AI and hardware, about his story on how the startup defense contractorAnduril is bringing AI to the battlefield.Mat:James, you got a pretty up close look at something most people probably havent even thought about yet, which is how the future of AI-assisted warfare might look. What did you learn on that trip that you think will surprise people?James:Two things stand out. One, I think people would be surprised by the gulf between how technology has developed for the last 15 years for consumers versus the military. For consumers, weve gotten phones, computers, smart TVs and other technologies that generally do a pretty good job of talking to each other and sharing our data, even though theyre made by dozens of different manufacturers. Its called the internet of things. In the military, technology has developed in exactly the opposite way, and its putting them in a crisis. They have stealth aircraft all over the world, but communicating about a drone threat might be done with Powerpoints and a chat service reminiscent of AOL Instant Messenger.The second is just how much the Pentagon is now looking to AI to change all of this. New initiatives have surged in the current AI boom. They are spending on training new AI models to better detect threats, autonomous fighter jets, and intelligence platforms that use AI to find pertinent information. What I saw at Andurils test site in California is also a key piece of that. Using AI to connect to and control lots of different pieces of hardware, like drones and cameras and submarines, from a single platform. The amount being invested in AI is much smaller than for aircraft carriers and jets, but its growing.Mat:I was talking with a different startup defense contractor recently, who was talking to me about the difficulty of getting all these increasingly autonomous devices on the battlefield talking to each other in a coordinated way. Like Anduril, he was making the case that this has to be done at the edge, and that there is too much happening for human decision making to process. Do you think thats true? Why is that?James:So many in the defense space have pointed to the war in Ukraine as a sign that warfare is changing. Drones are cheaper and more capable than they ever were in the wars in the Middle East. Its why the Pentagon is spending $1 billion on the Replicator initiative to fieldthousands of cheap dronesby 2025. Its also looking to field more underwater drones as it plans for scenarios in which China may invade Taiwan.Once you get these systems, though, the problem is having all the devices communicate with one another securely. You need to play Air Traffic Control at the same time that youre pulling in satellite imagery and intelligence information, all in environments where communication links are vulnerable to attacks.Mat:I guess I still have a mental image of a control room somewhere, like you might see inDr. StrangeloveorWar Games(orStar Warsfor that matter) with a handful of humans directing things. Are those days over?James:I think a couple things will change. One, a single person in that control room will be responsible for a lot more than they are now. Rather than running just one camera or drone system manually, theyll command software that does it for them, for lots of different devices. The idea that the defense tech sector is pushing is to take them out of the mundane tasksrotating a camera around to look for threatsand instead put them in the drivers seat for decisions that only humans, not machines, can make.Mat:I know that critics of the industry push back on the idea of AI being empowered to make battlefield decisions, particularly when it comes to life and death, but it seems to me that we are increasingly creeping toward that and it seems perhaps inevitable. Whats your sense?James:This is painting with broad strokes, but I think the debates about military AI fall along similar lines to what we see for autonomous vehicles. You have proponents saying that driving is not a thing humans are particularly good at, and when they make mistakes, it takes lives. Others might agree conceptually, but debate at what point its appropriate to fully adopt fallible self-driving technology in the real world. How much better does it have to be than humans?In the military, the stakes are higher. Theres no question that AI is increasingly being used to sort through and surface information to decision-makers. Its finding patterns in data, translating information, and identifying possible threats. Proponents are outspoken that that will make warfare more precise and reduce casualties. What critics are concerned about is how far across that decision-making pipeline AI is going, and how much there is human oversight.I think where it leaves me is wanting transparency. When AI systems make mistakes, just like when human military commanders make mistakes, I think we deserve to know, and that transparency does not have to compromise national security. It tookyearsfor reporter Azmat Khan to piece together the mistakes made during drone strikes in the Middle East, because agencies were not forthcoming. That obfuscation absolutely cannot be the norm as we enter the age of military AI.Mat:Finally, did you have a chance to hit an In-N-Out burger while you were in California?James:Normally In-N-Out is a requisite stop for me in California, but ahead of my trip I heard lots of good things about the burgers at The Apple Pan in West LA, so I went there. To be honest, the fries were better, but for the burger I have to hand it to In-N-Out.The Recommendation A few weeks ago I suggestedCa7riel and Paco Amorosos appearance on NPR Tiny Desk. At the risk of this space becoming a Tiny Desk stan account, Im back again with another. I was completely floored byDoechiis Tiny Desk appearance last week. Its so full of talent and joy and style and power. I came away completely inspired and have basically had her music on repeat in Spotify ever since. If you are already a fan of her recorded music, you will love her live. If shes new to you, well, youre welcome. Go check it out. Oh, and dont worry: Im not planning to recommendBillie Eilishs new Tiny Desk concertin next weeks newsletter. Mostly because Im doing so now.

Apple may be working on a replacement to its venerable Magic Mouse for 2026, and the new design is said to finally kill off a major sticking point for some users.Since 2015, you've charged the Magic Mouse through a port on its baseFor most of 2023 and 2024, it was rumored that Apple would roll out a new Magic Mouse with USB-C. It finally came to fruition in October 2024, with it and the Magic Keyboard both getting the newer wired connection.However, there haven't been any notable changes to the device other than a shift away from removable batteries to an internal battery. Reportedly, Apple is working on a new model of the device, rethinking the peripheral for the modern computing environment. Rumor Score: Likely Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Apple's third-generation Apple Watch Ultra is expected sometime in 2025, and is rumored to include satellite messaging, along with some form of hypertension monitoring.The Apple Watch Ultra third-gen should arrive in 2025 with new features.The upgrade to self-contained satellite communication would enable users to rely less on their iPhones for messaging and emergency calls in remote areas, potentially lightening the load for outdoor enthusiasts. The feature is likely to be exclusive to the third-gen Apple Watch Ultra, the current generation of which retails for $799.To be clear, the addition of satellite communication and geolocation features in the Apple Watch Ultra would assist with emergency situations, but not replace the overall usefulness of the iPhone. It would, however, make it easier to summon help quickly, if needed, by having the device already available on one's wrist, rather than packed away. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

Our latest weekly curated jobs roundup from the Archinect Job board features 20 Project Manager and Project Architect roles available in New York City.To explore specific job titles from the architectural profession, consult Archinect's Guide to Job Titles series. Also, follow our Archinect Tips series to improve your portfolio, resume, and interviewing skills, to increase your overall chances of getting that next job. Rockwell Group seeks a Senior Architectural Designer/Project Manager"Rockwell Group is seeking a full-time Senior Architectural Designer / Project Manager with F&B and/or restaurant design experience to join our office in New York." Qualifications include seven to ten years of experience, strong experience in AutoCAD, Rhino, and Adobe Creative Suite, and strong organizational and time management skills.The firm is also hiring an Architectural Designer, an Interior Designer, and a Design Technology Specialist in New York City.S9 Architecture seeks a Project Archite...

Revery Architecture has shared renderings of the soon-to-open Butterfly Tower and First Baptist Church in Vancouver.This more than 600,000-square-foot project encompasses a new 57-story luxury residential component and the rehabilitation of a historic church dating from 1911 on its downtown site.Image credit: Hayes DavidsonImage credit: Hayes DavidsonThe firm and client Westbank say they have been targeting a LEED Gold certification for their effort. The designs sculptural facade affects a cloud-like impression against its urban backdrop in order to lend the development a light and ephemeral quality.Image credit: Hayes DavidsonPerhaps the most exciting component is its all-season indoor lap pool, which is placed between the podium's roof and the towers main amenity suite. A galleria serves to visually connect the tower with the church beginning at the street level. The social housing building also evinces the "same spirit of community connectivity, participation, and stewards...

Sonic X Shadow Generations Sonic the Hedgehog 3 Movie Pack is now available on all platforms. Available standalone and with the Deluxe Edition, it features a new stage in Shibuya, based on the upcoming movie, and, of course, Keanu Reeves as the voice of Shadow. Check it out below.As indicated in the trailer, theres a small story to the DLC, which seemingly sees Shadow transported to an unknown dimension and taking on a new form. While meant to explain away his appearance, Shadow still possesses abilities like Chaos Control.Retailing for $5.99, the DLC currently has a Mixed rating on Steam, with 68 percent of its currently 299 reviews positive. Criticism revolves around its short length (only one playable Act) and the inability to use the movie look in the base game.Nevertheless, it is Keanu Reeves as Shadow the Hedgehog, which may be enough for some fans. Sonic X Shadow Generations is available for Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PS4, PS5, PC, and Nintendo Switch and has sold 1.5 million copies. Check out our review here.

The next Virtua Fighter has officially been revealed, but Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio hasnt forgotten about Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. It recently announced that the port would arrive on January 28th, 2025, for PC, retailing at $19.99 (with pre-orders receiving a 20 percent discount). Check out the latest gameplay trailer below.Alongside the base game, theres the 30th Anniversary Edition, which costs $49.99. It includes a Swimsuit Costume Set, the Anniversary Sound Collection, secret setting documentation, the Legendary Pack, the Ryu Ga Gotoku Series Collaboration Pack, and a special title. You also get a wallpaper set for R.E.V.O. and the series 30th anniversary.As for pre-orders, they receive the Sega Hardware Customization Item 3-Piece Set, which provides classic consoles like the Sega Genesis, Saturn, and Dreamcast as back attachments for all characters.Stay tuned for more details on Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. before its release next month. In the meantime, those playing Virtua Fighter 5: Ultimate Showdown on PS4 can download the Version 2.0 update. Learn more about its features in the trailer below.

Justin Hill International Chapter ChairThank you all for a wonderful year! I have been reflecting on the past years activities and the many people who have contributed to the work we have done this year. I would like to thank the International Chapter Institute staff, and the current International Chapter Councillors all of whom have worked together to deliver some excellent results.I would like to thank the current Chapter Councillors for all of their efforts and time given over the past year, many of whom join us online for meetings at various times of the day and night depending on their time zones. It was wonderful to meet face to face in Hobart, Tasmania this year and collaborate with both the Tasmania Chapter, SONA and the creative directors of the Australasian Student Architecture Congress Ground Matters on Bl?ck Party, a combined celebration of International and Tasmanian Chapters awards presentations and the closing party for Ground Matters!This year we are joined by Amy Learmonth as EmAGN (Emerging Architects and Graduates network) representative on International Chapter Council, we are working to grow our EmAGN membership and engagement with this demographic within the International Chapter and having Amy in this role provides a vital connection back to the National EmAGN committee and to our emerging architect members. We have advocated for and been successful in changing criteria of the Emerging Architect Prize, the prize is now to be awarded annually rather than biannually, and further the International Chapter winner will now also be eligible to proceed to the national competition.In addition, this year we have hosted Boarding Pass events in Hong Kong, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, collaborating with the respective Institutes of Architecture in these countries. These events are always an engaging evening, an opportunity to connect with colleagues and share experiences working in architecture internationally. I encourage you to attend the next Boarding Pass event in your international region more on that next year!It can be a challenge to connect when living and working internationally and the International Chapter is delighted to be hosting some Festive Gatherings online to ensure all of our members can connect with us and share in some festive trivia. This is a wonderful opportunity to meet International Chapter Councillors in your region and our leadership team, representing you as members. Those who are not yet members are welcome to join and find out more.Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all of our International Chapter members for their contribution to the industry this year and wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday break.The post A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL CHAPTER CHAIR appeared first on Australian Institute of Architects.

Daniel Lane Tasmanian Chapter PresidentIn preparation for the recently held Presidents Lunch, which celebrates our Chapter Fellows, Life Fellows and Councillors, I have been reflecting on the past years activities and the many people who have contributed to the work we have done this year. I would like to thank the Tas Chapter Institute staff, Jen, Fi, Katie, Loren and Nina. Its amazing to see how much work is undertaken by this committed team. It really is not until you are in this position (Chapter President) that you realise what is actually being done. An incredible amount of work is undertaken, and it is often unseen; so, I would like to recognise that and thank them for that work.I would like to thank the current Chapter Councillors. This year we have tried to instigate some change. For many years, we have unfortunately seen the demise of many chapter committees, but this year we have tried to rectify that. It is not easy, and it wont happen overnight, but I would like to thank our councillors for jumping into and assisting many of the committees by taking the first steps in re-invigorating their existence. In addition, this year we have looked at getting back to our roots and focusing on the issues that relate directly with practice. We have all had our issues with planning, with heritage, and with the exorbitant amount services engineering requirements for projects. I need not go on!So, we have provided strong advocacy at both a local and a state level to identify our concerns and to attempt to overcome some of the situations we are currently facing. Through these meetings and discussions, we believe our voice has been heard. We have been invited to the table, and we firmly believe our concerns are being considered and acted upon.Changes will be made. Some have already been seen, and some are on the way which will hopefully assist with our endeavours.Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to all of our Tasmanian Chapter members for their contribution to the industry this year and wish everyone a safe and relaxing holiday break. I look forward to working with you all again in the new year.The post A MESSAGE FROM THE TAS CHAPTER PRESIDENT appeared first on Australian Institute of Architects.