From Guardian Technology · 40 stories
House House Releases Co-op Exploration Game "Big Walk" Emphasizing Communication
House House, the developer of "Untitled Goose Game," has released "Big Walk," a new online cooperative puzzle game. Players explore a large island and solve puzzles together, with communication primarily facilitated through proximity chat.
Game Freak Releases New Action RPG "Beast of Reincarnation" to Mixed Reception
Game Freak, the studio primarily known for the Pokémon series, has released a new action RPG titled "Beast of Reincarnation." The game is set in a post-apocalyptic Japan and features a mercenary protagonist, but has received criticism for a lack of innovative ideas and repetitive gameplay.
Shark's ChillPill Fan Debuts with Versatile Cooling Features at Reduced Price
Shark has launched the ChillPill handheld fan with a three-in-one cooling system. Priced at £129.99, it features a rechargeable fan with a dry-touch evaporative mister and flexible design options. The device is currently available at a discounted price of $99.99 on Amazon and Costco.
SFB Games Releases "The Mermaid Mask," Latest Detective Grimoire Mystery Game
SFB Games has released "The Mermaid Mask," a new point-and-click mystery game featuring Detective Grimoire and his partner Sally. The game, a sequel in the Detective Grimoire series, tasks players with solving a locked-room murder on a submarine and is available on platforms including Nintendo Switch 2.
Halo: Campaign Evolved Remake Released, Updates Original Game with Unreal Engine 5
A full remake of the original Halo game, titled Halo: Campaign Evolved, has been released, updating the classic campaign experience with modern visuals and expanded cutscenes. The remake aims to bring the original game's story and gameplay to contemporary audiences using Unreal Engine 5.
Christopher Nolan Criticizes AI's Role in Creative Industries
Oscar-winning director Christopher Nolan criticizes AI, likening it to a Trojan horse with hidden dangers in creative sectors. Highlighting skepticism from younger audiences, Nolan argues this resistance is crucial for understanding and responsibly managing AI's impact.
AI-generated menus exhibit 'sameness problem' due to narrow training data
AI-generated restaurant menus often display an unappetizing, overly perfect aesthetic because the models are trained on limited datasets, leading to a lack of natural variation. This issue, dubbed the "sameness problem," highlights a broader challenge in generative AI where models can produce outputs that feel artificial or incorrect, even if visually flawless.
OpenAI's new model solves ten math problems, prompting concerns about AI's role in mathematics
OpenAI announced that an unreleased AI model solved ten open problems in mathematics, including one in coding theory. This development raises questions about the future role of human mathematicians and the potential for AI to independently advance mathematical fields.
AI-generated Greta Garbo appears in ball-bearing advertisement, sparking film role discussions
Greta Garbo's likeness was recreated using AI for a Swedish industrial company's advertisement, prompting her descendants to consider future AI film roles. This development showcases the increasing use of AI in reanimating deceased celebrities for commercial and potentially artistic purposes.
Drones could deliver defibrillators faster to out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients
A study in the Greater Paris area suggests drones could improve access to defibrillators for out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Researchers found that using drones could significantly increase coverage compared to relying solely on fixed defibrillator locations, potentially improving survival rates.
NSW government mistakenly identifies genuine mural as AI-doctored rental listing
The New South Wales government incorrectly cited a real estate listing with a genuine mural as an "AI-doctored" image, despite the agency confirming it was an unaltered photograph. This incident occurred while the government announced new laws to fine real estate businesses up to $22,000 for using undisclosed digitally altered or AI-generated property images, targeting misleading practices in rental advertising.
Nick Clegg Dismisses AI Extermination Fears, Cites Tech Bosses 'Breathing Own Fumes'
Nick Clegg, former Meta executive, dismissed fears of AI exterminating humanity, stating that tech leaders are "breathing their own fumes" and should focus on specific threats like cybersecurity. He argued that apocalyptic warnings are self-serving and paralyze political debate, suggesting a need for greater transparency and international collaboration among democracies.
Jess and Morgs' new dance piece 'Deepfake' explores deepfake politics
Choreographers Jessica Wright and Morgann Runacre-Temple (Jess and Morgs) are staging a new dance piece titled 'Deepfake' that examines the political implications of deepfake technology. The production uses live camera work and green-screen effects to explore the fabrication of truth in media, building on their previous work with technology themes.
Nick Clegg could gain £30m from Nscale datacentre startup flotation
Nick Clegg, former UK deputy prime minister, could receive approximately £30m from the planned US stock market listing of datacentre company Nscale. Nscale, where Clegg is a board member, is seeking a valuation of up to $35bn, with its flotation documents filed on September 18.
Immigrant News Coalition uses text and WhatsApp to reach immigrant communities
Independent news outlets like Documented and Conecta Arizona are using text and WhatsApp to provide vital information to immigrant communities, especially non-English speakers, filling a gap left by mainstream media. This approach allows for direct communication and addresses specific community needs, leading to the formation of the Immigrant News Coalition to share strategies and resources.
Ed Davey Calls for Global Treaty to Halt Super-Intelligent AI Development
Ed Davey, leader of the Liberal Democrats, will propose a global non-proliferation treaty for super-intelligent AI, similar to nuclear arms treaties, during his keynote speech at the party conference. He advocates for an international AI safety agency, headquartered in the UK, to regulate AI development due to potential existential risks.
Australian Treasury Forecasts Increased Life Expectancy and AI's Economic Impact by 2065/66
Australia's Treasury released an updated intergenerational report forecasting that life expectancy will rise to nearly 90 for women and 86 for men by 2065/66, driven by healthcare and medical research. The report also identifies artificial intelligence as the "defining influence" on the economy over the next four decades, despite associated risks.
Heata Servers Heat Homes by Repurposing Waste Heat from Computing Tasks
Heata, a Surrey-based company, is deploying compact computer servers in homes to heat water tanks, utilizing the waste heat generated by computing tasks. This system reduces domestic energy bills and addresses the environmental issue of waste heat from large data centers.
UK Conspiracy Theorists Damage Traffic Scanners, Believing Them to Be Surveillance Weapons
Individuals in the UK are damaging traffic scanners, believing them to be "phased array electronic assault weapons" capable of surveillance and causing health issues. This activity, linked to groups like "Blade Runners," has led to arrests and widespread vandalism across several towns, despite experts stating the technology is basic and long-standing.
US Schools and Police Warn About Viral 'Cat in the Hat' Threat Trend, Leading to Arrests
US schools and law enforcement are issuing warnings about a viral social media trend involving disturbing or AI-generated 'Cat in the Hat' images used to threaten students and schools. Several teenagers have been arrested and charged for posts related to this trend, which authorities consider criminal harassment regardless of intent.
UK Government Pilots AI Bootcamps to Address Youth Unemployment
The UK government launched a pilot program of AI bootcamps in the North-West to train 16- to 24-year-olds not in education, employment, or training (NEETs) in AI skills. This initiative aims to equip young people with relevant skills for the evolving job market and connect them with AI-focused apprenticeships offered by partner companies.
Elon Musk Congratulates Germany's Far-Right AfD Party on Election Victory
Elon Musk publicly congratulated Germany's far-right AfD party leader, Alice Weidel, following the party's state election victory in Saxony-Anhalt. This interaction highlights Musk's increasing alignment with international far-right political figures and parties, drawing renewed scrutiny to his political affiliations.
UK Economy Grows 0.4% in July, Driven by AI-Related Services
The UK economy unexpectedly grew by 0.4% in July, exceeding forecasts of zero growth. This expansion was primarily driven by the services sector, particularly computer programming and consulting, with businesses involved in AI and cloud computing contributing significantly.
Thieves target mail order Pokémon and Magic: The Gathering card sales via Royal Mail
Small businesses selling collectible trading cards are experiencing thefts of mailed items through Royal Mail, leading to significant revenue losses. The thefts involve tampered envelopes, indicating targeted operations rather than accidental losses, forcing some businesses to halt online sales.
Sadiq Khan Agrees to Text and Email Search in Palantir Legal Dispute
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has agreed to have his text messages and emails searched as part of a legal battle with Palantir, after he blocked a £50m deal between Palantir and the Metropolitan Police. Palantir is suing Khan's office over the decision, which cited procurement rule breaches, and requested the search of communications from Khan and other officials.
John Lewis Launches YouTube Chat Show to Improve AI Search Visibility
John Lewis is launching a YouTube chat show, "Gift List," to increase its products' visibility in AI search results and chatbots. This initiative responds to a significant rise in customers using AI large language models for product discovery, forcing retailers to adapt their marketing strategies.
Protests in Argentina follow Peter Thiel's move and legislative changes
Protesters gathered at Peter Thiel's Buenos Aires residence following a congressional session that questioned his presence in Argentina and recent legislative proposals. These proposals include an investment regime for foreign companies, which critics link to Thiel's move and private meetings with the Argentine president.
Connected Conservation Foundation Trains African Rangers in Drone Technology for Wildlife Protection
The Connected Conservation Foundation (CCF) is training conservation professionals from across Africa in drone technology and other tech solutions to combat poaching and enhance wildlife protection. This initiative addresses a critical gap in skilled technicians needed to operate and maintain advanced conservation technology in African nature reserves.
Upcoming Video Games for Autumn 2026 Include Onimusha, Screenbound, and Marvel's Wolverine
Several new video games are scheduled for release in autumn 2026, including Capcom's "Onimusha: Way of the Sword," the 5D platformer "Screenbound," and Insomniac Games' "Marvel's Wolverine." These titles span various genres, from action-adventure and puzzle to tactical RPG and horror, offering diverse experiences for players.
Report: Women in UK Arts Face Unequal Opportunities and Ageism, Exacerbated by AI in Hiring
A new report indicates that women in the UK arts industry perceive unequal opportunities, particularly as they age, with 95% believing gender inequality persists. The study highlights that ageism and gender discrimination are worsened by AI in hiring, which can penalize career breaks and reinforce existing biases. This matters as it points to systemic issues within the arts sector that affect career progression and representation for women.
Donald Trump uses AI-generated images on Truth Social depicting himself with George Washington
Donald Trump has posted a series of AI-generated images and a video on Truth Social featuring himself alongside George Washington. These posts occurred during a period of low approval ratings and amid questions regarding his administration's actions.
Solo Developer Remigiusz Michalski Announces New Game "Trainwatch"
Solo developer Remigiusz Michalski, known as Harvester Games, announced his sixth game, "Trainwatch," a time-management mystery adventure. The game focuses on a railway worker managing a level crossing in a desolate area, exploring themes of isolation and mental anguish, similar to Michalski's previous works.
Cyborg Cockroaches Developed for Search and Rescue with Medical Injection Capabilities
Biorobotics engineers from the University of Queensland and UNSW have developed "paraborgs," cyborg giant burrowing cockroaches equipped with cameras and miniature medical injectors. These insects are designed to deliver emergency aid in disaster zones inaccessible to human rescuers, expanding the capabilities of search and rescue operations.
Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival Game Focuses on Discomfort, Not Jump Scares
Mad Head Games is developing "Clive Barker's Hellraiser: Revival," a first-person action-horror game that emphasizes player discomfort and unease over jump scares. Game director Emil Esov incorporated elements like trypophobia after personal research, with Clive Barker and Doug Bradley contributing to the project.
Nine CEO anticipates publishing growth despite cost cuts, citing new media bargaining laws
Nine Entertainment's CEO, Matt Stanton, expects growth in publishing due to new Australian media bargaining laws that mandate payments from tech platforms for news content, even as the company implements $160 million in cost reductions across its newsrooms. This outlook comes amidst flat publishing revenue and declines in broadcast, with a focus on "growth assets" and AI deals.
Texas Senate Candidate Ken Paxton Proposes Plan to Address Datacenter Impact
Ken Paxton, a US Senate candidate in Texas, introduced a four-point plan to mitigate the "negative impact" of datacenters, including banning Chinese technology and ensuring datacenters do not raise electricity bills. This initiative responds to growing public concern over datacenters' power and water consumption, which has become a political issue in Texas.
Solo Developer Slumps Announces Retro-Styled Puzzle Adventure Game "A Pocket Full of Slagford"
Solo developer Patrick Grant, operating as Slumps, is creating "A Pocket Full of Slagford," a 3D puzzle adventure game inspired by late 80s and early 90s point-and-click classics. The game is set in a surreal, Thatcher-era northern England and features a unique puzzle mechanic involving collecting and placing scenery imprints.
World Robot Conference 2026 Showcases Over 3,000 Robotics Products in Beijing
The 2026 World Robot Conference in Beijing featured over 3,000 products, highlighting China's expanding robotics industry. The event presented recent advancements in humanoid robots, embodied intelligence, and components.
Toot Games develops 'My Arms Are Longer Now,' a comedy stealth game featuring a disembodied arm
Toot Games, founded by Matthew Jackson and Millie Holten, is developing "My Arms Are Longer Now," a comedy stealth game where players control a disembodied arm. The game focuses on humor and player interaction with the environment, allowing the arm to steal items and slap characters without traditional fail states.
Halloween: The Game Banned in Australia Due to Incentivized Drug Use, Not Violence
The video game "Halloween: The Game" has been refused classification in Australia, banning its sale, because it features marijuana use that provides a gameplay advantage. This decision by the Classification Board follows guidelines prohibiting games with illicit drug use linked to incentives or rewards, sparking renewed debate over Australia's game classification standards.