With the ever-changing tech world that we live in today, it can be a challenge to stay up to date with the latest innovations and events around the globe. To ensure you know all about the fresh news of the week, we’ve highlighted the top five tech stories.
With AI robots appearing at an NFL game, lawmakers meeting with tech influentials in Washington, big cyberattacks in Las Vegas, and more, this week has been full of must-know stories. So, let’s get started!
1. AI Robots Make an Appearance at Football Game
On Sept. 10, during the NFL’s season opener, AI robots appeared at the game. These robots were placed around the packed stadium to promote the upcoming new movie The Creator, a sci-fi film that explores a world of robots and humans living amongst each other. Fans could see the AI robots walking on the field and watching the game from the stands.
2. Lawmakers Meet With Tech Influentials About AI Policy
American tech leaders, such as Meta Platforms CEO Mark Zuckerburg, Tesla CEO Elon Musk, and Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai, met on Capital Hill on Sept. 13 to discuss AI policy with Congress. This meeting was critical because of government officials’ increasing concerns about AI’s ability to destroy critical infrastructure and interfere with political elections.
“Today, we begin an enormous and complex and vital undertaking: building a foundation for bipartisan AI policy that Congress can pass,” U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in opening remarks. “Congress must play a role because, without Congress, we will neither maximize AI’s benefits nor minimize its risks.”
3. Cyberattcks Shut Down Resort Systems in Las Vegas
After a cyberattack on the computer systems on Sept. 10, more than a dozen MGM Hotels & Casinos shut down operations. As of now, these shutdowns will continue and won’t reopen until there’s a solution. Current guests of MGM Hotels & Casinos can’t get into their reserved rooms using key cards and have restricted access to restaurants, ATM machines, and slot machines.
According to a statement from the resort obtained by USA Today: “Our resorts, including dining, entertainment, and gaming, are currently operational and continue to deliver the experiences for which MGM is known. Our guests remain able to access their hotel rooms, and our Front Desk staff is ready to assist our guests as needed. We appreciate your patience.”
4. Apple Reveals the New iPhone15
On Sept. 15, Apple revealed the iPhone 15 during its “Wonderlust” event. The new tech will cost $799 in the U.S., while the iPhone 15 Plus costs $899 due to the larger display and bigger battery. The release has special model features such as a USB-C, dynamic island, faster A16 chip, and improved camera technology. The iPhone15 will be available to purchase on Sept. 22.
5. Robots Restore Coral Reefs With New Tech System
A new tech robot is helping scientists mass propagate coral, which restores damaged reefs and prevents further bleaching. Marine biologist Taryn Foster, who helped design the base of the tech, states that the system is showing promise in the Abrolhos Islands.
In a statement to BBC, Foster states, “We’ve deployed several different prototypes of our coral skeletons. And we’ve also tested this on four different species. They’re all growing wonderfully. We’re bypassing several years of calcification growth that it takes to get to that base size.”