TechCapsules

General Robotics, led by CTO Sai Vemprala, is advancing a modular intelligence framework called GRID, moving away from single‑brain robot designs. Vemprala, a former Microsoft Research senior researcher with a PhD from Texas A&M, emphasizes simulation‑based robotics and scalable AI systems. The company’s approach allows independent modules to be combined for diverse tasks, aiming to simplify development and deployment across industries. The strategy reflects a broader shift toward flexible, interoperable robotic architectures in the field. [...]

A Harvard study forecasts that electric vehicle (EV) sales in the United States will rise from 8 % today to 32 % by 2030, despite federal policy setbacks. The report, titled “Simulating Impacts of Proposed Trump Policy Changes on Electric Vehicle Adoption,” attributes the projected drop from a potential 48 % to 32 % mainly to the removal of the $7,500 EV tax credit. Researchers also highlight battery technology improvements, expanded fast‑charging networks, and consumer confidence in charging infrastructure as key

Apple’s new A20 Pro chip in the iPhone 18 Pro outperforms the entry‑level M4 found in recent Mac mini and iMac models in single‑core CPU and GPU benchmarks. Geekbench 6 and 7 tests show the A20 Pro’s single‑core CPU is 22–28 % faster, while the M4’s 10 cores give it a 13–27 % advantage in multi‑core workloads. GPU compute scores reveal the A20 Pro beats the M4 by 15–28 %. In 3DMark tests, the A20 Pro matches or exceeds the M4 in most graphics scenarios, including [...]

NPR’s podcast “Wild Card” discovered a surge of cryptic comments on its Spotify episodes, initially suspected as bot traffic. A producer shared screenshots with NPR’s Slack, and after reviewing them, audio producer Hannah Chin identified the messages as coming from middle‑schoolers who were too young for mainstream social media. The children used the podcast’s comment section as a group chat, seeking quieter online spaces. NPR’s host Ira Glass later confirmed the youths’ identity and explained their motive. The incident [...]

Sony Interactive Entertainment announced it will cease production of physical discs for new PlayStation titles in January 2028, aligning with the anticipated PlayStation 6 launch. A large developer survey, reportedly sent by Sony, asked developers about concerns over eliminating physical copies, following backlash at Gamescom and fan protests. Tom from the Broken Silicon podcast highlighted that the survey is unusually extensive and noted that titles like Marvel’s Wolverine continue to sell well in physical form. Sony has [...]

The article reviews a range of iPhone accessories that enhance photography and videography. It highlights Moment’s specialist lenses, including macro and anamorphic options, and notes the need for compatible cases or mounts. ShiftCam’s ProGrip adds a hand‑grip, trigger button, and built‑in power bank for steadier shots. SmallRig’s All‑In‑One Video Kit supplies dual grips, a 360‑degree tripod, cardioid mic, cold shoes, and cables for serious mobile production. SeaLife Sport offers a dedicated underwater housing for iPhones. Each product [...]

Zach Cregger’s Resident Evil film has revealed the real‑world origin of its “Katamari Monster.” Stunt performers, led by Jakub Hudlicky of Movement Production, filmed themselves strapped together and moving in unison to mimic the creature’s rolling motion. The footage, captured in July 2025, was used by CGI artists to animate the monster’s locomotion, though the final shots are fully computer‑generated. The reveal underscores the film’s blend of practical stunt work and digital effects. [...]

Resident Evil Requiem has surpassed $500 million in sales, the highest for any mainline entry, according to Alinea Analytics. The PS5 remains the top platform, with 4 million copies sold, 30 % of which are physical. The new film reboot, directed by Zach Cregger, opened to $108 million worldwide but did not significantly boost Requiem’s sales; Capcom’s pre‑release discounts reduced daily PS5 revenue by 4 %. The film did increase daily players for older titles, notably a 48 % jump for the Resident Evil 2 remake. [...]