Chinas underwater AI push sees 400 servers deployed beneath the sea, with plans for 40,000 more in years ahead.

The online education company has tapped Goldman Sachs as it studies options such as going private or getting acquired.

It was recently the 20th anniversary of Constantine, and Warner Bros. released a whole bunch of bts featurettes from the home video release. Watch below!The post Constantine behind the scenes to revisit appeared first on befores & afters.

A first-of-its-kind project will use a swarm of small, independent submersibles to monitor, protect and provide data on offshore artificial reefs whose purpose is to attract new marine life in otherwise barren sections of sea, officials said Monday.The small, autonomous underwater vehicles, or AUVs, hailed as the future of underwater surveillance will be equipped with sensors and high-definition cameras to give scientists at the Cyprus Marine and Maritime Institute a clear picture on the effectiveness of their intricate artificial reefs designed and built using 3D printing.Made of an environmentally friendly cement mixture, the artificial reefs will be embedded with a docking station at which the AUVs can recharge and transmit collected data including video, said CMMI CEO Zakarias Siokouros.The advantage of the AUVs lies in their ability to loiter underwater for as long as a month at a time and provide a continuous flow of data while protecting the reefs by alerting scientists to any disturbance in protected waters from illegal fishing and encroaching boats. Scientists would, in turn, notify local authorities.A trial run of the project, dubbed EONIOS, is currently underway off Cyprus Ayia Napa marina. Scientists plan to place the artificial reefs in waters off Cyprus southern coastal town of Limassol at a depth of around 20 meters (66 feet) where sunlight can still reach the seabed.The reefs attract everything from vegetation to large fish and for waters off Cyprus where there isnt enough food for fish, we aim to create the appropriate environment to bring such fish there, Siokouros told The Associated Press following a demonstration of the AUVs capabilities at the Ayia Napa Marina.EONIOS is a partnership between the CMMI, AUV makers Arkeocean of France, Cypriot tech company SignalGeneriX and French consultancy company Lanego.Siokouros said the partnership aims to market EONIOS to other countries who would want to build up their fish stocks using artificial reefs.A key selling point for the AUVs is that they can provide surveillance, 3D data collection and area protection at a significant discount compared to tethered submersibles, said Arkeocean official Tamara Brizard.Our goal is to make a system under which six of our mini-drones can do the same work for the price of one conventional drone, Brizard said.Arkeocean AUVs can currently pack a maximum 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of sensors and other gear and can operate to a depth of 300 meters (984 feet) although newer versions are being designed to reach 3,000 meters (9,842 feet). The AUVs receive commands through an attached acoustic antenna and can pinpoint their location.Battery-powered thrusters make the AUVs very stealthy and nearly undetectable, Brizard said, making them extremely useful for defense purposes such as surveillance in restricted waters. The AUVs can operate anywhere in the world thanks to an Iridium satellite antenna.The AUVs can also use undersea currents to roam, extending battery life. Another application is in the energy field where the submersibles can be used to detect seismic activity for offshore oil and gas exploration as well as finding suitable areas on which to build offshore wind and solar farms, said Brizard.Menelaos Hadjicostis, Associated Press

Dan Bongino, a former U.S. Secret Service agent who ran unsuccessfully for office and gained fame as a conservative pundit with TV shows and a popular podcast, has been chosen to serve as FBI deputy director.PresidentDonald Trumpannounced the appointment Sunday night in a post on his Truth Social platform, praising Bongino as a man of incredible love and passion for our Country. He called the announcement great news for Law Enforcement and American Justice.The selection places two staunch Trump allies atop the nations premier federal law enforcement agency at a time when Democrats have raised alarms that the Republican president could seek to use the FBI to target his adversaries. Bongino would serve under Kash Patel, a Trump loyalist who wassworn in as FBI directorat the White House on Friday and who has signaled his intent to reshape the bureau, including by relocating hundreds of employees from its Washington headquarters and placing greater emphasis on the FBIs traditional crime-fighting duties.The deputy director serves as the FBIs second-in-command and is traditionally a career agent responsible for the bureaus day-to-day law enforcement operations. The position does not require Senate confirmation. But Bongino, like Patel, has never served in the FBI, raising questions about their experience level when the U.S. is facing escalating national security threats.Natalie Bara, president of the FBI Agents Association, wrote in an internal newsletter to members sent Sunday before Bonginos selection was announced that Patel had agreed during a January meeting with her that the FBI deputy director should continue to be an on-board, active Special Agent as has been the case for 117 years for many compelling reasons, including operational expertise and experience, as well as the trust of our Special Agent population.The two are inheriting an FBI gripped by turmoil as the Justice Department over the past month has forced out a group of senior bureau officials and made a highly unusual demand forthe names of thousands of agentswho participated in investigations related to the Jan. 6, 2021, riot at the U.S. Capitol.Bongino served on the presidential details for then-Presidents Barack Obama and George W. Bush, before becoming a popular right-wing figure. He became one of the leading personalities in the Make America Great Again political movement to spread false information aboutthe 2020 election, which Trump and allies have continued to maintain was marred by widespread fraud even thoughsuch claims have been widely rejectedas false by judges and former Trump attorney general William Barr.For a few years following Rush Limbaughs death in 2021,he was chosen for a radio showon the same time slot of the famous commentator.Bongino worked for the New York Police Department for several years in the 1990s before joining the Secret Service. He began doing commentary on Fox News more than a decade ago, and had a Saturday night show with the network from 2021 to 2023. He is now a host of The Dan Bongino Show, one of the most popular podcasts, according to Spotify.Bongino ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Maryland in 2012 and for congressional seats in 2014 and 2016 in Maryland and Florida, after moving in 2015. He lost the three races.During an interview last fall, Bongino asked Trump to commit to forming a commission to reform the Secret Service, calling it a failed agency and criticizing it for thetwo assassination attemptslast year.That guy should have been nowhere near you, Bongino said about the man who authorities say camped outside Trumps golf course in West Palm Beach, Florida, before he was spotted with a rifle.During the same interview, Trump praised the Secret Service agent who saw the rifles barrel coming out of a bush.Patel and Bongino will succeed the two acting FBI leaders, Brian Driscoll and Rob Kissane, who have led the bureau since the departure in January of formerDirector Christopher Wray, who was appointed by Trump in 2017 and held the job for the next seven years before resigning at the end of the Biden administration to make way for his chosen successor.Adriana Gomez Licon and Eric Tucker, Associated PressAssociated Press writer Ali Swenson contributed to this report.

Photography is constantly changing, fueled by new technology, creative ideas, and the desire to capture meaningful moments. Sigma is stepping into 2025 with a fresh perspective, introducing a revitalized visual identity and a lineup of new products aimed at giving photographers more ways to express themselves. Unveiled in Tokyo, Sigmas updated branding represents its deep-rooted passion for artistry and precision engineering. More than a visual refresh, it reinforces the companys approach to camera and lens design, ensuring photographers have tools that feel intuitive and reliable for any creative pursuit.Designer: SigmaA Refined Look: The Evolution of Sigmas IdentitySigmas updated visual identity reflects its core philosophy. The brands new wordmark and symbol retain the Greek letter , honoring Sigmas heritage while introducing a refined design. This update will gradually appear on packaging, digital platforms, and marketing materials. The change highlights the companys focus on craftsmanship and the extensive expertise behind each product, reinforcing Sigmas longstanding commitment to its roots in Aizu, Japan.This change also coincides with the introduction of Sigmas Art Projects Initiative, a deeper investment in the creative community. Sigmas first collaborations with artists Slve Sundsb and Julia Hetta showcase its belief that photography is more than capturing imagesits an evolving art form.Design and ErgonomicsThe BFs seamless aluminum body is carved from a single solid block, reinforcing structural rigidity while maintaining a visually refined appearance. The cameras compact form factor enhances portability without compromising durability. The back of the camera presents a minimalist yet intuitive interface, with essential controls placed for ergonomic efficiency.A pressure-sensitive haptic dial replaces conventional mechanical dials, allowing adjustments with subtle feedback. The large status monitor provides at-a-glance settings, while the thumb grip is seamlessly integrated into the chassis for stability. A textured dial pad and control buttons ensure easy navigation without overwhelming the user with excessive inputs.Performance and FeaturesThe BFs internal memory of 230GB removes the dependency on external storage, accommodating more than 14,000 JPEG images or over two hours of high-quality 6K video. A USB-C port facilitates rapid data transfers and charging. The built-in color modes, including Teal and Orange, Powder Blue, and Classic Monochrome, provide creative flexibility directly in the camera.Hybrid autofocus enables reliable subject tracking with both phase detection and contrast detection working in tandem. The camera supports video recording in 6K resolution with L-Log functionality, catering to filmmakers and photographers alike.300-600mm F4 DG OS | Sports: A Precision-Crafted Telephoto SolutionSigmas 300-600mm F4 DG OS | Sports lens is designed for professionals who require reach and optical clarity. Built with a magnesium alloy barrel, the lens maintains durability while remaining manageable in weight. A new function ring provides instant access to preset focus positions or smooth transitions during video recording.Internally, the optical structure consists of 28 elements in 21 groups, including six FLD and one SLD glass element for aberration control. Optical stabilization compensates for up to 5.5 stops of shake, ensuring sharp results in challenging conditions. The tripod socket, featuring precision-machined bearings, enhances stability when mounted.16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary: Versatility Without LimitsDesigned for APS-C mirrorless systems, Sigmas 16-300mm F3.5-6.7 DC OS | Contemporary lens integrates a high-response linear actuator (HLA) autofocus system for rapid and silent performance. With an 18.8x zoom ratio, this lens covers wide-angle to super-telephoto focal lengths, eliminating the need for multiple lenses.A minimum focusing distance of 17cm at the wide end enables striking macro-style shots, while a maximum magnification ratio of 1:2 at 70mm enhances creative possibilities. Optical stabilization compensates for up to six stops of shake at 16mm and 4.5 stops at 300mm. The dust- and splash-resistant structure ensures reliability in adverse weather.The Renewed I Series: Refined Design, Uncompromised PerformanceSigmas I Series lenses receive a design update with newly engraved branding and exterior refinements. The introduction of silver-finished L-Mount options aligns with the BF cameras aesthetic, offering a visually cohesive system. All nine lenses in the series now feature updated engravings and an improved tactile grip.A notable improvement is the 45mm F2.8 DG Contemporary, which now supports a magnetic metal lens cap. Optical formulas remain consistent, maintaining Sigmas high rendering standards. These lenses are available for both L-Mount and Sony E-Mount users.Sigmas Manhattan Pop-Up: An Interactive ShowcaseTo introduce these innovations, Sigma America is hosting a pop-up space in Manhattans Nolita neighborhood throughout March. The space offers hands-on experiences with the new products, including the Sigma BF and the 300-600mm Sports lens. Displayed works from photographers using these tools highlight their creative potential.Visitors can meet Sigma team members, attend discussions with professionals, and explore Sigmas evolving role in imaging. The event reflects Sigmas dedication to engineering and art, demonstrating that its products extend beyond functionality and become integral to creative expression.Looking AheadSigmas latest announcements reinforce its commitment to photography as an art form. By refining its visual identity and introducing a lineup that merges simplicity with high performance, Sigma remains at the forefront of imaging technology. The BF camera, 300-600mm Sports lens, and 16-300mm zoom lens each embody Sigmas philosophyengineering for art. These products will soon be in the hands of photographers, shaping how moments are captured for years to come.Andrew James: Example PhotoAdam Klingeteg: Example PhotoThe post Sigmas New Vision: Cameras and Lenses Built for Creativity first appeared on Yanko Design.

Imagine walking along Shanghais bustling Huangpu River, where the citys steel-and-glass skyline meets the soft ripple of the water. Suddenly, an otherworldly structure catches your eye, a delicate yet bold fusion of billowing curves and sharp angles, shifting hues as the daylight fades. This is Curly Cube, a stunning modular installation by the Peoples Architecture Office (PAO), designed to transform an ordinary urban space into a playground of light, shade, and interaction.Designer:Peoples Architecture Office (PAO)At first glance, Curly Cube is a contradiction, soft yet structured, fluid yet rigid. Its design is inspired by the Gyroid minimal surface, a mesmerizing natural form that exists at the intersection of mathematics and nature. This complex yet efficient geometry is brought to life through curvilinear tensile membranes, conceived by Serge Ferrari, stretched over lightweight square frames. The result is a structure that feels both futuristic and strangely familiar, like something nature might have designed if given an architects toolkit.This duality of tensile softness and geometric precision is what makes the installation so compelling. Tensile structures, known for their ability to cover vast spans with minimal material, use fabric or membranes stretched across a supporting frame, creating lightweight yet sturdy enclosures. The principles of tensegrity (a balance between tension and compression) further enhance the structures strength and adaptability. The Curly Cube is a sculpture but also a living, breathing form that interacts with its environment.By day, Curly Cube offers shaded pockets where visitors can pause, relax, or simply escape the sun. The translucent membranes filter light in soft, diffused waves, creating an inviting sanctuary within the citys vibrant chaos. Its a place where people can sit, lean, or even climb, a modular space that encourages intuitive exploration.But as the sun dips below the skyline, the real magic begins. Integrated lighting casts gentle, fleeting gradients across the silver membranes, shifting as you move around them. The structure glows like a futuristic lantern, drawing in visitors who might have otherwise walked by. The lighting isnt just for spectacle, it transforms the space into a new kind of social hub, inviting people to gather, play, and linger in an atmosphere that feels almost dreamlike.One of Curly Cubes greatest strengths is its modularity and adaptability. It can be stacked, reconfigured, or even relocated, making it a scalable solution for cities looking to breathe new life into forgotten spaces. Whether serving as seating, partitions, or even trampolines, the installation encourages a tactile and participatory public experience.Installations like Curly Cube highlight the role of public design in shaping urban experiences. Cities can often feel fast-paced and impersonal, but a well-placed intervention can transform a simple walkway into a space for connection and curiosity. By integrating adaptable structures into everyday environments, urban spaces can become more inviting, engaging, and memorable.The post Futuristic Modular Installation Redefines Public Spaces and Fosters Community in Shanghai first appeared on Yanko Design.

On Monday, while testifying in a court hearing related to the ongoing Apple vs Epic legal battle, Apple executive Phil Schiller recounted his concerns regarding the fees Apple imposes on purchases made outside the App Store.Phil Schiller revealed that he had concerns over Apple's fees on purchases made through external websites.During internal meetings at Apple, which dealt with the company's response to an anti-steering injunction, App Store head Phil Schiller said that he was against implementing a fee for purchases made via external websites. Schiller's concerns were only made public on Monday when the Apple executive testified in court.Schiller explained that he had cautioned against implementing fees for external purchases, saying that they might lead to an antagonistic relationship between Apple and app developers. The testimony was first reported by The Washington Post. Continue Reading on AppleInsider | Discuss on our Forums

The nonprofit entity ofFR-EEfounderFernando Romero has shared images ahead of its takeover of the Luis Barragn-designed Casa La Cuadra San Cristbal in Mexico City following a renovation and expansion. The Casa will reopen this October as an incubator and educational center for art and architecture with a focus on the rich design legacy left by Barragn throughout the country.Romero related to Hyperallergic recently that the property, which had first been acquired in 2017, was at one time under demolition threat. He was available at a recent sneak preview of the upcoming multifaceted project, which he hopes will "push the boundaries" of both disciples into the future.Photo: Yannik Wegner, courtesy of Fundacin Fernando RomeroPhoto: Yannik Wegner, courtesy of Fundacin Fernando RomeroNow, with its transfer to the foundation secured, he says it will become an expanded new hub for artists that will be enhanced with the introduction of new pavilion structures, a library, podcastin...

The National Trust for Historic Preservations dedicated African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund has announced a new round of grants totaling $8.5 million that will be put towards the restoration of 30 historically significant Black churches in 19 states.Taveau Church (Preservation South Carolina) in Moncks Corner, SC. Photo: Bill FritzpatrickIn announcing what is now the third round of funding through the Preserving Black Churches (PBC) program, executive director Brent Leggs called them "enduring symbols of faith, strength, and community leadership."St. James AME Church Columbus in Columbus, GA. Photo: Michele HowardHe added: "By preserving them, we ensure that their powerful presence continues to live on in their communities and inspire future generations."GLIDE Memorial Church (GLIDE Foundation) in San Francisco, CA. Photo: GLIDE CommunicationsThe bastions of Black communities nationwide and a testament to their endurance, historical churches, have become a focal poin...