Discover the unseen artistry behind The Tattooist of Auschwitz. Union VFX has meticulously crafted invisible visual effectsfrom the digital resurrection of Auschwitz-Birkenau to the evocative display of fire, ash, and weather. Each detail is rendered with care to preserve the profound weight of this historical narrative!WANT TO KNOW MORE?Union VFX: Dedicated page about The Tattooist of Auschwitz on Union VFX website. Vincent Frei The Art of VFX 2025

The United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted Nikes patent for a new footwear 3D printing process.In the global fashion brands novel method, digital designs are 3D printed onto fabric material to create the shoes upper. The sole is then 3D printed directly onto this section, eliminating the need for traditional two-part shoe construction techniques.Nikes approach offers advanced material customization, allowing designers to enhance strength, rigidity, support, flexibility, and abrasion resistance. Removing heavy adhesives, stitching, and excess material layers could also enable lighter footwear designs. Additionally, the newly granted patent (US-12226973-B2) has the potential to reduce material waste, making custom products more sustainable.David P. Jones and Ryan R. Larson are the key investors named in the patent, which was first filed in December 2023 and published last April before being granted this week. Jones is a co-inventor on several patents related to 3D printing directly onto fabric for apparel assembly. Larson, Director of Nikes Digital & 3D Cushioning Systems for Footwear Cushioning Innovations, is also an active figure in the companys additive manufacturing efforts.A diagram showing Nikes new patented footwear 3D printing process. Image via the United States Patent and Trademark Office.Over a decade of 3D printed footwear innovation at NikeAdditive manufacturing is nothing new at Nike. Back in 2013, the Oregon-based shoe-making giant unveiled its first 3D printed football boot, the Vapor Laser Talon. SLS additive manufacturing was used to produce the cleats footplate, reportedly cutting the weight to 158 grams for faster sprinting and optimal traction.Several announcements followed, including a 2016 partnership to leverage HPs Multi Jet Fusion (MJF) 3D printing technology. That same year, Nike introduced Zoom Superfly Flyknit running shoes, designed for 7-time Olympic gold medal-winning sprinter Allyson Felix. Spike plate prototypes were 3D printed in SLS to determine the perfect ratio of flexibility to bounce. This reportedly reduced iteration times to days, accelerating the design process. Legendary Jamaican Womens 100m sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce also collaborated with Nike to prototype custom 3D printed footwear for the 2016 Olympic Games.The world-leading shoemaker continued its 3D printing-enabled athlete collaborations in 2018, when former mens marathon world-record holder Eliud Kipchoge adopted Nike shoes with a fully 3D printed upper section.The Vaporfly Elite Flyprint shoes marked a distinct move away from the companys use of additive manufacturing, shifting from prototyping to production. At the time, Nikes senior director for global running footwear, Bret Schoolmeester, told Wired, This is the first [3D printed] upper that will be more mass applicable. Later that year, Nike extended the release of these athlete-grade running shoes into the wider market.More recently, Nike made headlines last year with the launch of Air Max 1000, its first sneaker produced almost entirely with 3D printing. Unveiled at ComplexCon in Las Vegas, the new design was developed with Berlin-based Zellerfeld, a company known for its 3D printed footwear expertise. 1,000 pairs were made available through a raffle preorder at the Vegas-based fashion and music event.A side view of the 3D printed Nike Air Max 1000. Photo via Nike.Nikes new footwear 3D printing patentContinuing Nikes additive manufacturing efforts, the companys newly patented approach could be used to fabricate 3D printed shoes in the future.According to the official document, digital 3D patterns are first created for the shoes upper and sole sections. Next, a piece of knitted, woven, or nonwoven fabric is placed flat on a tray inside a 3D printer. An ink, resin, acrylic, polymer, or thermoplastic-based material is extruded directly onto the fabric to create the desired pattern.According to the patent, the extruded material may be slightly absorbed into the fabric before curing. Additionally, multiple layers can be 3D printed to create reinforced zones where needed, unlocking added strength and flexibility. Once printed, the pattern is cured with UV light. This step is vital to creating a strong blend between the fabric and extruded material. The flat upper section is then formed into a 3D shape, conforming to the final shoe design.3D printing the upper in Nikes newly patented footwear 3D printing process. Image via the United States Patent and Trademark Office.Next, the upper section is placed upside down inside the 3D printer. Using at least one pre-determined three-dimensional grip pattern, the sole is 3D printed directly onto the upper. The patent highlights that midsole and outsole layers can be made from flexible, cushioned materials like polyurethane or foam rubber, enhancing comfort and durability. Additionally, an optional sock liner can be added to the upper for a more secure fit. The sole section is also UV-cured to harden the material. Finally, the completed shoe undergoes quality control checks.The patent indicates that this process applies to a variety of sports footwear, including shoes for athletics, basketball, soccer, cycling, tennis, baseball, cross-training, and hiking. It also highlights that the method can be applied to create other types of footwear, such as dress shoes, loafers, sandals, slippers, boat shoes, and work boots.Additionally, the document reveals that Nikes new 3D printing process isnt limited to footwear. It can also be used to manufacture a range of clothing, apparel, and equipment, such as hats, jackets, shirts, gloves, and other sports gear made from fabric, leather, rubber, and foam.This draws parallels with other technologies in the garment 3D printing space. Israel-based 3D printer manufacturer Stratasys, for instance, offers the J850 TechStyle fashion 3D printer. This system features direct-to-textile technology that can 3D print designs and patterns directly onto clothing such as jeans and jackets. The 3D printer is compatible with denim, cotton, polyester, and linen fabrics, allowing designers and fashion brands to personalize wearable products and meet customer style preferences. According to Stratasys, its fashion printing process minimizes material waste by converting old outfits into new, bespoke fashion products.The sole-3D printing process. Image via the United States Patent and Trademark Office.3D printed shoes: a growing industry trend3D printed shoes are a growing trend in the additive manufacturing and footwear industries. Increasing interest is driven by the technologys ability to create unique and personalized designs to meet customer needs with minimal material usage.Nike isnt the only footwear brand to embrace additive manufacturing. Earlier this year, the luxury Italian fashion brand Gucci expanded its Spring Summer 2025 (SS25) collection by introducing several new designs of its 3D printed Cub3d sneakers. Initially released last year in a limited run of just 20 pairs, the sneakers are now available in five color options: Purple, Grey, Black, Brown, and Grey-and-white.These 3D printed shoes combine Demetra and mesh in their upper construction. Gucci developed the Demetra material, at least 70% of which is composed of vegetable-derived raw ingredients like viscose, wood pulp, and bio-based polyurethane. The bi-material sole features an EVA-filled cushioning interior and a TPU exterior for added flexibility.Elsewhere, Florida-based footwear developer Syntilay recently introduced new 3D printed sliders designed using artificial intelligence (AI). Available for $150, the shoes are 3D printed to meet specific customer specifications. Buyers scan their feet with a smartphone camera to produce an accurate model for sizing. Human designers sketch the initial concepts before AI platforms like MidJourney refine these ideas into more detailed forms. AI design software Vizcom then converts the sketches into 3D models, which are fabricated in collaboration with Zellerfeld.Another company 3D printing footwear is ELASTIUM. Last year, the UAE-based startup partnered with LaLaLand Production & Design, Californias largest shoe manufacturer, to expand additive manufacturing in the footwear industry. The companies are working to accelerate localized and sustainable mass production through their No-MMOQ hybrid production model, which can reportedly cut initial investment costs by up to 80%.The first product launched under this collaboration, the Orca, Elastiums latest 3D printed sneaker. It combines a TPU foam midsole with an elastane and TPU upper. Shipping for this product commenced last November, with prices starting at $250.Who won the 2024 3D Printing Industry Awards?Subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter to keep up with the latest 3D printing news.You can also follow us on LinkedIn, and subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry Youtube channel to access more exclusive content.Featured image shows schematics of a Nike shoe. Image via the United States Patent and Trademark Office.

US-based 3D printer manufacturer 3D Systems has introduced its latest developments in dental 3D printing at LMT Lab Day 2025 at the Hyatt Regency Chicago.Taking place from February 20 22, this launch includes the new NextDent 300 MultiJet 3D printer designed to simplify denture manufacturing by allowing fully cured, multi-material dentures to be printed directly, removing the need for additional post-curing steps.By streamlining this process, the company aims to help dental labs work more efficiently while improving the production of patient-specific dentures. Alongside the new printer, 3D Systems is preparing to introduce solutions for night guards and direct-printed aligners, signaling its continued investment in digital dentistry.Attendees at the event will have an opportunity to see these new developments in action at Booth A-43/B-42 in the East Exhibit Hall. The company will also host seminars in the Comiskey Room, West Tower, Bronze Level, providing further insights into its latest advancements. Moreover, pre-orders for the NextDent Jetted Denture Solution will be available at the show, with general availability planned for Q3 2025.Dr. Jeffrey Graves, President & CEO, 3D Systems, said, Our decades of experience developing specialized dental materials and 3D printing technology along with our deep applications expertise will allow us to bring a full spectrum of high-volume production solutions to market in the coming years. Were committed to this expansion and are working closely with key players in every dental product category to accelerate the availability of these advancements.This news followed right after the companys Co-Founder and CTO, Chuck Hull was elected to the National Academy of Engineering. He said, Im honored and excited to serve and work alongside such outstanding professionals to advance the positive impact engineering has on our world.The NextDent 300 is part of 3D Systems FDA-cleared complete workflow solution that enables high-volume dental laboratories to rapidly produce dentures. Image via 3D Systems.Expanding multi-material 3D printing in dental careAccording to the manufacturer, the NextDent 300 introduces a multi-material printing approach that enables dental professionals to produce monolithic dentures more efficiently.Complementing this system, 3D Systems has developed two new materials: NextDent Jet Teeth, designed to replicate the durability and appearance of natural teeth, and NextDent Jet Base, formulated to provide impact resistance. Both materials are integrated into an FDA-cleared workflow that combines hardware, software, and printing technology to ensure high-quality production standards.For dental labs handling high volumes of dentures, efficiency plays a key role in meeting patient needs. Building on this need, the new system can print up to 15 arches in approximately nine hours, helping to reduce production times and allowing prosthodontists to deliver finished dentures more quickly.Beyond dentures, 3D Systems is working on expanding the same multi-material printing technology to night guards, a type of dental appliance commonly used to protect teeth from grinding or to aid in sleep apnea treatment. With increasing awareness of these conditions and demand for customized solutions, the company expects night guards to become a key addition to its dental portfolio by late 2025.In the orthodontics sector, the company is also developing a direct-printing solution for clear aligners. As a key supplier of 3D printing technology to the aligner industry, 3D Systems says it currently contributes to the production of roughly one million patient-specific aligners daily. The introduction of direct-printing capabilities is expected to enhance production speed and efficiency, with availability anticipated in 2026.According to Vantage Market Research cited by 3D Systems, the global dental 3D printing market is projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2032. With a portfolio that includes more than 30 applications, 3D Systems aims to keep contributing novel solutions to the industry.Last year, the US-based manufacturer introduced a multi-material 3D printed denture solution, marking what it claimed to be the first jetted, monolithic denture offering in the industry. This solution was later seen receiving an FDA approval in October.Unlike traditional solutions that use a single material, this system features distinct materials for gums and teeth, NextDent Jet Denture Base for impact absorption and NextDent Jet Denture Teeth for enhanced aesthetics and rigidity. Aimed at high-volume production, the technology promises faster turnaround times with improved durability.3D Systems unique multi-material, single-piece dentures offer an unparalleled combination of distinctive break resistance and outstanding aesthetics. Image via 3D Systems.Technical specifications of NextDent 300 MultiJet 3D printerInterested customers can visit the company at the show, or its website to learn more about the pricing details.Printable area (X x Y x Z)294 x 211 x 50 mm (11.6 x 8.3 x 2.0 in)Resolution800 x 900 x 800 DPILayer Thickness32 mControl Panel7 HD display with multi-touch screenDimensions (W x D x H)1183 x 740 x 1077 mm (47 x 29 x 42 in)Weight247 kg (546 lbs)Electrical100-127 VAC, 50/60 Hz, single-phase,15AA 200-240 VAC, 50 Hz, single-phase, 10AOperating Humidity30-70% relative humidityNoise< 65 dBa estimated (at medium fan setting)Software3D Sprint for preparing and monitoring printsWhat3D printing trendsshould you watch out for in 2025?How is thefuture of 3D printingshaping up?To stay up to date with the latest 3D printing news, dont forget to subscribe to the 3D Printing Industry newsletter or follow us on Twitter, or like our page on Facebook.While youre here, why not subscribe to our Youtube channel? Featuring discussion, debriefs, video shorts, and webinar replays.Ada ShaikhnagWith a background in journalism, Ada has a keen interest in frontier technology and its application in the wider world. Ada reports on aspects of 3D printing ranging from aerospace and automotive to medical and dental.

Temple of Monte Grisa | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserPerched on the Karst Plateau overlooking the Gulf of Trieste, the Temple of Monte Grisa is a striking monument to faith and modernist experimentation. Designed by Antonio Guacci and constructed between 1959 and 1966, the church is one of Italys most unusual examples of mid-20th-century religious architecture. The temple was conceived as a national Marian shrine, a spiritual landmark dedicated to Mary, Mother, and Queen.Temple of Monte Grisa Technical InformationArchitects1-6: Antonio GuacciLocation: Monte Grisa, Trieste, ItalyArea: 3100 m2 | 33,360 Sq. Ft.Project Year: 1963 1965Photographs: Julian Weyer, Flickr UserJust as the human body is made up of cells, so the Temple of Monte Grisa is made up of concrete ribbed hexagons. Antonio GuacciTemple of Monte Grisa PhotographsAerial View | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserExterior View | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserEntrance | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserInterior | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserFacade | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserInterior | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserSkylights | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserDoor Detai; | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserStairs | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserColumns | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserInterior | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserStructure | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserStructure | Julian Weyer, Flickr UserTemple of Monte Grisa Structural ExpressionThe construction of Monte Grisa aligns with a broader post-war movement in ecclesiastical architecture that sought to redefine the spatial experience of worship through contemporary materials and structural innovations. In this period, architects moved away from traditional religious iconography and instead embraced expressive forms, experimenting with geometry, light, and structural articulation.Antonio Guaccis vision for Monte Grisa is an ambitious response to this era of transformation, combining an uncompromising geometric language with a bold exploration of reinforced concrete. However, despite its spiritual aspirations, the design remains a subject of debatepraised for its structural audacity yet often critiqued for its austere, almost fortress-like presence.One of the Temple of Monte Grisas most distinctive features is its triangular geometry, an overt symbolic reference to the Holy Trinity. The entire structure is conceived as an assemblage of interconnected triangles, forming a striking lattice-like framework that dominates the landscape. The triangular motif extends beyond mere ornamentation; it becomes the essence of the buildings spatial and structural composition.The temple is constructed using reinforced concrete, a material that allows for articulating complex geometric forms while providing the necessary structural stability. The primary load-bearing elements create an intricate network of triangular voids and solids, giving the faade a permeable, almost skeletal appearance. This approach enhances the buildings monumental presence and introduces an interplay of light and shadow that changes dynamically throughout the day.Internally, the sanctuary follows the same geometric rigor, with its soaring triangular framework shaping the spatial experience. The vast interior volume eschews traditional nave-and-aisle configurations in favor of an open, centralized arrangement that directs focus toward the altar. The result is a space that fosters introspection through its stark materiality and carefully modulated natural light.Materiality, Atmosphere, and Sacred SpaceGuaccis use of raw, exposed concrete aligns Monte Grisa with the Brutalist ethos that was gaining traction in Europe then. However, unlike many Brutalist structures, which emphasize mass and opacity, the temple employs a lattice of concrete ribs, giving it a paradoxical sense of weight and permeability. The materials inherent roughness stands in contrast to the spaces spiritual connotations, creating a dialogue between the earthly and the divine.Light plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere of Monte Grisa. The triangular perforations in the faade allow filtered daylight to penetrate the interior, casting an ever-changing pattern of shadows across the walls and floor. This dynamic interaction between structure and light reinforces the spaces ethereal qualities, transforming the heavy concrete framework into a luminous, almost ephemeral presence.The temples hilltop location further enhances its symbolic and experiential dimensions. Positioned as a beacon overlooking the city of Trieste, it commands panoramic views of the Adriatic Sea, establishing a direct relationship between the sacred space and the natural world. This positioning reinforces the notion of pilgrimage, with the ascent to the temple mirroring a spiritual journey.Critical Reception and LegacySince its completion, the Temple of Monte Grisa has elicited various reactions from architects, historians, and the public. On the one hand, it is celebrated as an innovative exploration of modernist ecclesiastical architecture, pushing the boundaries of structural expression and geometric abstraction. Its audacious form and material honesty place it within the lineage of experimental religious buildings such as Le Corbusiers Notre-Dame du Haut and Pier Luigi Nervis Church of St. Mary of the Angels.Yet, despite its architectural ambitions, Monte Grisa has also faced criticism. Its stark, almost bunker-like exterior has been described as uninviting, with some arguing that its monumentalism overshadows its spiritual intent. Unlike traditional churches that seek warmth and intimacy, Monte Grisas abstract geometries and raw materiality create an experience that can feel detached and austere.From a broader perspective, Monte Grisa embodies the tension between modernist principles and ecclesiastical tradition. While some view it as a daring reinterpretation of sacred space, others see it as an example of form overpowering function. Temple of Monte Grisa PlansSketch | Antonio GuacciSections | Antonio GuacciTemple of Monte Grisa Image GalleryAbout Antonio GuacciAntonio Guacci was an Italian architect known for his innovative approach to modernist religious architecture. His most notable work, the Temple of Monte Grisa in Trieste (1959-1966), showcases a bold Brutalist aesthetic with a distinctive triangular geometric structure. Guaccis design philosophy merged structural experimentation with symbolic expression, creating an enduring architectural landmark that continues to provoke critical discourse in ecclesiastical design. Credits and Additional NotesDesign Concept: Based on sketches by Archbishop Antonio SantinStructural Engineer: Antonio GuacciClient: Archbishop Antonio Santin, representing the Diocese of TriesteArchitectural Style: BrutalismElevation: Approximately 330 meters above sea levelInauguration Date: May 22, 1966

UK police forces are supercharging racism through their use of automated predictive policing systems, as they are based on profiling people or groups before they have committed a crime, according to Amnesty International.Predictive policing systems use artificial intelligence (AI) and algorithms to predict, profile or assess the likelihood of criminal behaviour, either in specific individuals or geographic locations.In a 120-page report published on 20 February 2025 titled Automated racism How police data and algorithms code discrimination into policing Amnesty said predictive policing tools are used to repeatedly target poor and racialised communities, as these groups have historically been over-policed and are therefore massively over-represented in police data sets.This then creates a negative feedback loop, where these so-called predictions lead to further over-policing of certain groups and areas; reinforcing and exacerbating the pre-existing discrimination as increasing amounts of data are collected.Given that stop-and-search and intelligence data will contain bias against these communities and areas, it is highly likely that the predicted output will represent and repeat that same discrimination. Predicted outputs lead to further stop-and-search and criminal consequences, which will contribute to future predictions, it said. This is the feedback loop of discrimination.Amnesty found that across the UK, at least 33 police forces have deployed predictive policing tools, with 32 of these using geographic crime prediction systems compared to 11 that are using people-focused crime prediction tools.It said these tools are in flagrant breach of the UKs national and international human rights obligations because they are being used to racially profile people, undermine the presumption of innocence by targeting people before theyve even been involved in a crime, and fuel indiscriminate mass surveillance of entire areas and communities.The human rights group added the increasing use of these tools also creates a chilling effect, as people tend to avoid areas or people they know are being targeted by predictive policing, further undermining peoples right to association.Examples of predictive policing tools cited in the report include the Metropolitan Polices gangs violence matrix, which was used to assign risk scores to individuals before it was gutted by the force over its racist impacts; and Greater Manchester Polices XCalibre database, which has similarly been used to profile people based on the perception that they are involved in gang activity without any evidence of actual offending themselves.Amnesty also highlighted Essex Polices Knife Crime and Violence Models, which uses data on associates to criminalise people by association with others and uses mental health problems or drug use as markers for criminality; and West Midlands Polices hotspot policing tools, which the force itself has admitted is used for error-prone predictive crime mapping that is wrong 80% of the time. The use of predictive policing tools violates human rights. The evidence that this technology keeps us safe just isnt there, the evidence that it violates our fundamental rights is clear as day. We are all much more than computer-generated risk scores, said Sacha Deshmukh, chief executive at Amnesty International UK, adding these systems are deciding who is a criminal based purely on the colour of their skin or their socio-economic background.These tools to predict crime harm us all by treating entire communities as potential criminals, making society more racist and unfair. The UK government must prohibit the use of these technologies across England and Wales as should the devolved governments in Scotland and Northern Ireland.He added that the people and communities subject to this automated profiling have a right to know about how the tools are being used, and must have meaningful routes of redress to challenge any policingdecisions made using them.On top of a prohibition on such systems, Amnesty is also calling for greater transparency around the use of data-driven systems by police that are in use, including a publicly accessible register with details of the tools, as well as accountability obligations that include a right and clear forum to challenge police profiling and automated decision-making.In an interview with Amnesty, Daragh Murray a senior lecturer at Queen Mary University London School of Law who co-wrote the first independent report on the Met Polices use of live facial-recognition (LFR) technology in 2019 said because these systems are based on correlation rather than causation, they are particularly harmful and inaccurate when used to target individuals.Essentially youre stereotyping people, and youre mainstreaming stereotyping, youre giving a scientific objective to stereotyping, he said.Computer Weekly contacted the Home Office about the Amnesty report but received no on the record response. Computer Weekly also contacted the National Police Chiefs Council (NPCC), which leads on the use of AI and algorithms by UK police.Policing uses a wide range of data to help inform its response to tackling and preventing crime, maximising the use of finite resources. As the public would expect, this can include concentrating resources in areas with the most reported crime, said an NPCC spokesperson.Hotspot policing and visible targeted patrols are the bedrock of community policing, and effective deterrents in detecting and preventing anti-social behaviour and serious violent crime, as well as improving feelings of safety.They added that the NPCC is working to improve the quality and consistency of its data to better inform its response, ensuring that all information and new technology is held and developed lawfully, ethically in line with the Data Ethics Authorised Professional Practice (APP).It is our responsibility as leaders to ensure that we balance tackling crime with building trust and confidence in our communities whilst recognising the detrimental impact that tools such as stop and search can have, particularly on black people, they said.The Police Race Action Plan is the most significant commitment ever by policing in England and Wales to tackle racial bias in its policies and practices, including an explain or reform approach to any disproportionality in police powers.The national plan is working with local forces and driving improvements in a broad range of police powers, from stop and search and the use of Taser through to officer deployments and road traffic stops. The plan also contains a specific action around data ethics, which has directly informed the consultation and equality impact assessment for the new APP.Problems with predictive policing have been highlighted to UK and European authorities using the tools for a number of years.In July 2024, for example, a coalition of civil society groups called on the then-incoming Labour government to place an outright ban on both predictive policing and biometric surveillance in the UK, on the basis they are disproportionately used to target racialised, working class and migrant communities.In the European Union (EU), the blocs AI Act has banned the use predictive policing systems that can be used to target individuals for profiling or risk assessments, but the ban is only partial as it does not extend to place-based predictive policing tools. According to a 161-page report published in April 2022 by two MEPs jointly in charge of overseeing and amending the AI Act, predictive policing violates human dignity and the presumption of innocence, and it holds a particular risk of discrimination. It is therefore inserted among the prohibited practices.According to Griff Ferris, then-legal and policy officer at non-governmental organisation Fair Trials, time and time again, weve seen how the use of these systems exacerbates and reinforces discriminatory police and criminal justice action, feeds systemic inequality in society, and ultimately destroys peoples lives. However, the ban must also extend to include predictive policing systems that target areas or locations, that have the same effect.A month before in March 2022,Fair Trials, European Data Rights (EDRi) and 43 other civil society organisations collectively calledon European lawmakers to ban AI-powered predictive policing systems, arguing that they disproportionately target the most marginalised people in society, infringe fundamental rights and reinforce structural discrimination.That same moth, following its formal inquiry into the use of algorithmic tools by UK police including facial recognitionand various crime prediction tools the Lords Home Affairs and Justice Committee (HAJC) described the situation as a new Wild West characterised by a lack of strategy, accountability and transparency from the top down. It said an overhaul of how police deploy AI and algorithmic technologies is required to prevent further abuse.In the case of predictive policing technologies, the HAJC noted their tendency to produce a vicious circle and entrench pre-existing patterns of discrimination because they direct police patrols to low-income, already over-policed areas based on historic arrest data.Due to increased police presence, it is likely that a higher proportion of the crimes committed in those areas will be detected than in those areas which are not over-policed. The data will reflect this increased detection rate as an increased crime rate, which will be fed into the tool and embed itself into the next set of predictions, it said.However, in July 2022, the UK government has largely rejected thefindings and recommendationsof the Lords inquiry, claiming there is already a comprehensive network of checks and balances.The government said at the time while MPs set the legal framework providing police with their powers and duties, it is then for the police themselves to determine how best to use new technologies such as AI and predictive modelling to protect the public.Read more about police technologyMet Police challenged on claim LFR supported by majority of Lewisham residents: A community impact assessment for the Met Polices deployment of live facial-recognition tech in Lewisham brings into question the forces previous claims to Computer Weekly that its use of the technology is supported by the majority of residents.Automated police tech contributes to UK structural racism problem: Civil society groups say automated policing technologies are helping to fuel the disparities that people of colour face across the criminal justice sector, as part of wider warning about the UKs lack of progress in dealing with systemic racism.Campaigners criticise Starmer post-riot public surveillance plans: A UK government programme to expand police facial recognition and information sharing after racist riots is attracting criticism from campaigners for exploiting the far-right unrest to generally crack down on protest and increase surveillance.

Just how water-resistant is that box filled with electricity? Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET I remember a time when you wouldn't dare let water anywhere near a smartphone or power bank, as it would almost certainly mean disaster. Today, however, most smartphones are designed to be water- and dust-resistant to some extent, and even gadgets like power banks and portable power stations are following suit. Also:The best portable power stations you can buyBut how can you determine exactly how water- and dust-resistant a device is? And what's the difference between something being water-resistant and truly waterproof? IP ratings explainedThis is where IP ratings come into play. IP, short for Ingress Protection, is an international standard used to measure a device's resistance to water, dust, and other foreign objects. It's expressed in the form of IPXX, where each "X" represents a numeral. The first digit indicates protection against solid particles, like dust, while the second digit measures resistance to liquids. The numbers for dust range from 0 (not dust-resistant) to 6 (dust-tight), while the numbers for liquids range from 0 (no protection) to 9 (protection against high-temperature, high-pressure water jets). If an X appears in the rating, that indicates unknown, meaning a test wasn't carried out. For example, IPX5 means that no test was carried out for dust intrusion. IP RatingDust Protection (First Digit)Liquid Protection (Second Digit)XUnknownUnknown0No protection against dust or solid objectsNo protection against liquids1Protection against solid objects larger than 50 mm (e.g., hands)Protection against vertically falling water drops2Protection against solid objects larger than 12.5 mm (e.g., fingers)Protection against vertically falling water drops when the device is tilted up to 153Protection against solid objects larger than 2.5 mm (e.g., tools, wires)Protection against water sprays at an angle of up to 604Protection against solid objects larger than 1 mm (e.g., small wires)Protection against water splashes from any direction5Limited protection against dust (dust might enter but won't interfere with operation)Protection against low-pressure water jets from any direction6Complete protection against dust (dust-tight)Protection against high-pressure water jets from any direction7N/AProtection against temporary immersion in water (up to 1 meter for 30 minutes)8N/AProtection against continuous immersion in water under conditions specified by the manufacturer (e.g., depth and time)9N/AProtection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jetsThis standardized system eliminates the ambiguity often caused by marketing claims, providing a clear and reliable measure of durability. IP-rated devicesMost smartphones, for example the iPhone 16 or the Samsung Galaxy S25, are rated IP68. But while both are dust-tight, the water resistance varies. The iPhone can withstand being submerged up to 6 meters deep for up to 30 minutes, but Samsung says that the Galaxy S25 is only good for 1.5 meters of freshwater for up to 30 minutes. Pair your smartphone with apower bank like this IP68-rated Klarus K5, and you've got the perfect outdoor setup. There's also the Shargeek 170 power bank, which is rated IP66, meaning it's dust-tight and can handle high-pressure water jets from any direction, but it's not made for submersion.Then there's theDT Research tablet is rated IP65, rated IP65, so it's dust-tight and can handle low-pressure water jets from all sides. This tablet can take a real soaking. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET And if you're looking for a power station, the Bluetti AC60P is rated IP65 too, making it great for outdoor use. Just keep in mind that the manufacturer doesn't recommend using it when it's wet. This power station is perfect for outdoor use. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET Other ratings to knowIncreasingly, I come across devices that are IP69K-rated, such as ruggedized smartphones. This rating means the device is not only dust-tight but also resistant to high-pressure water jets (up to 100 bar or 1450 psi) at high temperatures (up to 80C or 176F). Devices with this rating are built to endure the harshest conditions. Some gadgets might also claim to be MIL-STD-810-rated. This is a United States Military Standard developed by the US Department of Defense to test and evaluate the durability and environmental resilience of equipment. It covers a wide range of conditions, including extreme temperatures, humidity, vibration, shock, sand, dust, and even explosive atmospheres. The standard also allows tests to be tailored to the specific environmental conditions the equipment is expected to face. This Ulefone Armor 25T Pro ruggedized smartphone claims to be MIL-STD-810- and IP69K-rated. Can you trust these ratings?Well there are three factors at play here. Also: The best power banks you can buyThe first is whether you trust that the manufacturer making the claim has actually tested the device, tested it properly, and been honest about the results. While I can't carry out scientific tests, I've had plenty of experience exposing gadgets to dirt, dust, and water on a regular basis. From my experience, while you can generally trust the big-name manufacturers, there's no shortage of companies that claim an IP rating, but their products fail to deliver on that promise. Another factor to bear in mind is that sometimes flaps and covers are used to give the device dust and water resistance, and these will need to be secured in order for the device to achieve the stated rating. These rubber flaps are a vital part of the tablet's IP protection. Adrian Kingsley-Hughes/ZDNET And finally, there's wear and tear. A product that's new might be dust-tight and water-resistant, but after a few years of drops, bumps, and exposure to chemicals such as sunscreen or insect repellents, the gaskets and seals can weaken, and that resistance can be lost. So, that's IP ratings in a nutshell. They're incredibly useful for understanding the limits of a device, but keep in mind that not all gadget makers are entirely honest, and even if they are, wear and tear can still affect a device's resistance over time. Featured

The clock is ticking for Kindle users. After February 2025, a long-standing feature disappears. Will this change how you buy and store digital books? Read on to find out.

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ReacherAmazonWhile Amazon Prime Video has certainly had its share of solid programming over the years, one of its biggest success stories has been a particular action-crime drama, one that has just returned for a new season after a long wait and it has perfect 100% scores from even a few dozen critics now, making it Certified Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes. That show, of course, is Reacher. Alan Ritchson is back as the ass-kicking ex-MP, barrelling into trouble wherever he goes, returning for season 3, adapting the book Persuader. The show is once again getting excellent critic scores, but yes, that 100% is its best ever. Season 1 had a 92%, season 2 (despite I would argue, being much worse) got a 98% from critics. Now with over two dozen critic reviews in, it has still maintained a 100%, and that many scores means it passes the Rotten Tomatoes threshold for being Certified fresh, which is not the case when you dont have enough reviews in.It's too early to get a full sense of audience reviews now. There are only 50 or so in, and at a 76%, thats not amazing, but again, 50 random viewers are a little different than 30 critics, and critics have seen more episodes in total. If instead we go over to IMDB, the new episodes score an 8.2-8.4 with hundreds of reviews in, above all of season 2s episode scores, so thats a very promising start by that metric.ReacherAmazonIt is obviously no surprise that Reacher has rocketed to #1 on Amazon Prime Videos Top 10 list instantly, which has surpassed the also well-watched, high-scored Invincible. But Reacher has much broader appeal to a wide range of ages and interests, and its one of the things that helped keep it inside Amazons Top 10 TV list for effectively the entire nearly two year gap between seasons. You really do not ever see that with any other programs the service has. Fallout has been there for a long while now, but I dont think it has the legs that Reacher does. Unfortunately for Amazon, its massively budgeted Rings of Power does not stay on the Top 10 list long, and since viewership supposedly fell 50% between seasons, thats no great surprise.Despite Reachers relatively grounded setting, its still supposed to have a budget of around $14 million an episode, emblematic of streaming inflation that is ballooning costs across all production (Severance and its many white hallways costs $20 million an episode). But I think Amazon is more than getting its moneys worth here, and Reacher is going to be around an extremely long time.Follow me , and .Pick up my sci-fi novels the and

What just happened? Amazon MGM Studios has secured creative control over the iconic James Bond franchise as part of a new joint venture formed with Amazon MGM Studios, Michael G. Wilson, and Barbara Broccoli, the long-standing producers of the 007 series. As the dust settles on this landmark deal, all eyes will be on Amazon MGM Studios to see how it will shape the future of one of cinema's most enduring and beloved characters. The newly established partnership will house the James Bond intellectual property rights, with Amazon MGM Studios, Wilson, and Broccoli remaining co-owners of the franchise. However, the significant shift lies in the creative control, which will now rest with Amazon MGM Studios once the transaction is finalized.This move marks a significant change in the franchise's management, as the Broccoli family has been at the helm of James Bond productions since Albert "Cubby" Broccoli and Harry Saltzman launched the film series in 1962.The deal represents a notable shift in Barbara Broccoli's stance towards Amazon.After Amazon's substantial $6.5 billion acquisition of MGM Studios, which included the rights to distribute Bond films, the franchise's future hit a snag, with the partnership between Amazon and the family controlling James Bond's destiny deteriorating significantly. The strained relationship effectively halted any plans for a new Bond movie, dealing a blow to Amazon's Hollywood aspirations. This setback was particularly significant given that the Bond franchise was a major factor in the hefty price tag Amazon paid for MGM.The ultimate authority over Bond's cinematic future rested with Barbara Broccoli, who inherited this responsibility from her father. For three decades, she had been the key decision-maker regarding the production of new Bond films. // Related StoriesBroccoli had been vocal about her concerns regarding Amazon's potential impact on the franchise. She was reportedly skeptical of the studio's algorithmically-driven approach to developing entertainment projects, even telling friends that "These people are f idiots." Because of the impasse, the last James Bond film produced was "No Time to Die," released in September 2021.However, both parties have managed to overcome their differences. In a statement, Broccoli expressed her desire to focus on other projects after dedicating her life to maintaining and building upon her father's legacy. Wilson echoed this sentiment, stating their trust in Amazon MGM to lead James Bond into the future.The announcement has sparked immediate speculation about the future of the James Bond franchise, fueled by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, who took to social media shortly after the announcement, asking his followers who they would pick as the next James Bond. This move suggests that the search for a new 007 may already be underway, with popular suggestions including Henry Cavill, James McAvoy, Tom Cruise, and Theo James.