Google is testing a new feature on their Google Maps app that will allow users to receive directions though their phone camera in real time. The feature will create an augmented reality overlay over the camera so that directions will be visible alongside real world objects. The idea is still in early testing stages, as Google is still coming up with ways to keep users from focusing too much on the screen instead of what is in the real world, as well as other practical use issues.
Amazon announced in November that it was planning to build a new headquarters in New York. However, recent protests have caused debates on whether the company will continue its plans. Government opposition may halt further development, but the mayor continues to support the project. If Amazon brings its offices to Queens, it could mean creating between 25,000 to 40,000 jobs.
SpaceX has filed an application with the FCC to approve its Starlink service. Starlink aims to bring high-speed, reliable, and affordable broadband to consumers in the US and around the world. If everything goes according to plan, SpaceX expects the service to be launched in 2020.
Eva RamΓ³n Gallegos, a Mexican scientist, has discovered a treatment that has been 100% successful in treating HPV in humans. Photodynamic therapy involves injecting the patients with a drug which enters into infected cells. The cells are then targeted with a special laser beam and destroyed. The treatment only affects damaged cells, leaving healthy cells intact.
instant.page allows web developers to preload pages for users once it detects that a link is about to be clicked. Whenever a user's mouse hovers over a link for 65ms on desktop or 90ms on mobile, it begins to download data for the next page. This creates an effect where the next page appears to load instantly.
miniC-hosting is a simple stack-based virtual machine that is able to run C in a browser. The aim of the project is to experiment with an environment to see if it is more effective for learning C. There is an interactive demo and tutorial for beginning programmers.
According to the Bloomberg Billionaire Index, the last few years has seen a change among the top 10 self-made billionaires under the age of 40. In the past, the list was dominated by people from the US, but in 2018, 4 of the top 10 were from China, 2 were from Australia, and only 3 were from the US. The changes are likely due to the rise of Chinese technology companies. Of the 500 total people on the list 41 are now from China, compared to 31 at the end of 2016.
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