MIT’s new robot blocks self-assemble just like a transformer

When we watched the first Transformers movie, most of us wanted our toasters and washing machines to turn into cool robots. Now, MIT has developed a set of self-assembling robot blocks that can identify each other. These robots, called M-Blocks 2.0, have a barcode-like system on each face that helps them recognize and communicate with other blocks. Right now, these 16 blocks can perform tasks such as forming a line, following arrows, tracking light, and traversing down a path of arrows. These blocks can travel along other blocks, climb up or down each other, and even jump. Check out their…

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TNW Podcast: Oscar Kneppers on academic startups; ESA wants to detect space-time ripples

Welcome to the new episode of the TNW Podcast — the show where we discuss the latest developments in the European technology ecosystem and feature interviews with some of the most interesting people in the industry. In today’s episode, Andrii and Linnea talk about a new European space mission, AI-generated podcasts, antiquated tech in German trains, and much more. In the interview section, we’re featuring a conversation with Oscar Kneppers, CEO of the Amsterdam Centre for Entrepreneurship, or ACE. He’s also founded several well-known local publications and one of the country’s major startup accelerators, Rockstart. Here are the stories and… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/a6AlDsr

Swiss startup believes this forgotten element is the key to safe nuclear energy

Nuclear energy is undergoing a renaissance. Across Europe, governments are pouring huge amounts of money into new power plants while startups are busily working on smaller, modular alternatives. Most of these plants rely on uranium, the radioactive metal that fuelled the atomic age (and contributed to a couple of catastrophic meltdowns). However, Swiss startup Transmutex wants to reinvent nuclear energy using a lesser-known element called thorium. Uranium’s forgotten cousin Thorium is a lead-like metal that is mildly reactive, but four times more abundant than uranium and a lot safer to handle. However, thorium is a fissionable material but not a… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/ideQqVM

If you’re having problems with your home WiFi network, this Asus router might be your answer

TLDR: The Asus AC1900 WiFi Router has cloud controls, AI advances and a host of special features that make it a premium router upgrade model, particular at nearly 40 percent off. You can go without a refrigerator for a day or two. You can survive without an oven, or a microwave, or your fancy coffee brewing system. But there’s no faster way to bring an entire household to a screeching halt and the edge of imminent panic than if the WiFi router sputters or fails. WiFi is the lifeblood of any modern home — and considering how many smart devices… This story continues at The Next Web from The Next Web https://ift.tt/398EUKv

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