PRIVYET, MARHABA, HI: According to the UN's telecommunications agency there are 5 billion mobile phone subscriptions worldwide and 2 billion Internet users. The world's total population exceeds 6.8 billion. The most rapid online growth in recent years has come from former Soviet states and Arab nations. I have a feeling we're not speaking English any more. More at Physorg.
DON'T WORRY, BE HAPPY: If you're going to blow yourself up deliberately then I guess you want to choose the time and place. A Russian suicide bomber blew herself up in a safe house on New Year's Eve instead of near Red Square. Why? Her wireless carrier sent her a 'Happy New Year' text message. I'm sure The New Year was a lot happier for revellers in Red Square than it would otherwise have been. More at LeaderPost.
PROTECTIVE PLANTS: You may blanch in the face of danger, but some genetically modified plants could turn white almost instantly when exposed to explosives or pollutants. A biology professor from Colorado State University says the plants she and her team have developed could be used within the next few years at places where people gather. Say goodbye to any white flowers you currently use for decoration - they'll be too worrying. Details at DVice and video on YouTube.
SNIFFER LASER: Princeton University engineers can create a laser beam out of thin air. An ultraviolet laser pulse focuses on a tiny patch of air exciting oxygen atoms. When the pulse ends electrons fall and create a coherent laser beam aimed right back at the original laser. Analysis of the return beam could indicate even trace amounts of pollutants in the air, such as explosives or hazardous gases. I can imagine detectors for bad breath, booze breath and garlic breath. More at EurekAlert.
YOUR HOUSE KNOWS WHAT YOU DO: InterHome is a house developed by researchers at the University of Hertfordshire. Unlike other houses, this one learns from and adapts to its inhabitants. Embedded devices and home automation controllers turn lights on or off for example, according to your usual behaviour patterns, or send a text message reminder that you didn't lock the door. Log in over the web to change settings. All data that would very much interest advertisers too, I'm sure. More at ScienceDaily and video on YouTube.
- Miraz Jordan knowit.co.nz
Tech Universe: Friday 4 February
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