Browsing: Tech

Five individuals, including two prominent British social media campaigners, have been denied US visas. The US State Department accused them of attempting to “coerce” American tech platforms into suppressing free speech, a move that has drawn condemnation from European leaders.

New advancements in fire retardant technologies are emerging to create safer buildings and protect against wildfires. Companies like Halt are using substances such as Burnblock to treat wood, making it highly resistant to flames, while First Graphene is incorporating graphene into plastics to slow fire spread. Researchers are also developing sprayable gels for pre-emptive wildfire protection, marking a significant shift towards more effective and less toxic fire safety solutions.

Online reviews, once a trusted guide for buyers, have lost their credibility as businesses increasingly manipulate ratings for sales. This article explores how tactics like ‘review gating’ and incentivization skew public perception, and how algorithms prioritize high scores over authenticity. Consumers are adapting by seeking personal recommendations, cross-referencing information, and prioritizing direct experience, signaling a need for platforms to reform their review systems to regain trust.

The defence industry faces a significant skills shortage, driven by ethical concerns among younger generations, a perception of being technologically conservative, and intense competition for STEM talent. As governments increase defence spending, the sector is working to rebrand its image, highlight its broader societal contributions, and diversify its recruitment strategies to attract a new wave of skilled professionals.