Google prevents blindness with AI technology
Wired reported at the Wired Business Conference 2017 that Google has introduced artificial intelligence (AI) technology to a chain of ophthalmology hospitals in India. Google's research team trained an image algorithm to detect microvessels in patients' retinas, an early symptom of diabetic retinopathy. While this is a preventable disease, it can lead to blindness in the worst-case scenario. Lily Peng, a research project leader at Google, stated, "India has a shortage of ophthalmologists, so many diabetic patients do not receive annual checkups." She added that Google used learning techniques similar to those used to distinguish between dogs, cats, or people, and has completed clinical trials in India.

Ah, will the iPhone 8 introduce wireless charging?
Robert Hwang, CEO of Wistron, the Indian manufacturer producing the iPhone SE, said that the next-generation iPhone will include water resistance and wireless charging capabilities. In addition, regarding the specifications of the iPhone 8, a dual-lens camera, a camera with augmented reality (AR) capabilities, an OLED display, and facial recognition technology are being mentioned. As for the release date, opinions are divided, ranging from "it will be released in September, just like this year" to "it is already in production" and "it is unclear."

Offline Amazon vs. Online Walmart, Who Is the Winner?

Amazon acquired the offline grocery chain Whole Foods, while Walmart acquired the online clothing retailer Bonobos. Regarding the consecutive announcements by the two competitors, TechCrunch reported that the winner of the competition depends on how conveniently online and offline operations are integrated. Walmart holds an advantage as the only retailer capable of competing with Amazon in terms of scale and size, possessing stores within 10 miles and having recently conveniently installed grocery pickup kiosks. Amazon operates two stores in Seattle where customers can pick up their ordered items.


Blueprint of the aircraft vehicle to be unveiled by VA Aerospace

Neva Aerospace, a consortium of five European aviation companies, announced that it plans to unveil a blueprint for a VTOL (Vertical Take-Off and Landing) vehicle at the Paris Air Show. It will be fully electric, available in both manned and unmanned versions, with a flight time of approximately one hour. Wired reported that the weight, including four electric turbofans and the pilot's suit, would be just over 1,000 lb (about 453 kg), and that it would take about five years to develop a practical flying vehicle.

Spectra, the Tesla of the skateboard world

New Atlas reported that the Spectra electric skateboard from New York startup Walnutt allows users to learn how to ride within five minutes using built-in sensors. The sensors, equipped with a 3D posture control system, accelerate when leaning forward and brake when lifting the toes backward.

The sensor is enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) to learn the user's movements over time, providing a smooth ride. Users can share driving routes and control speed modes and battery status via a smartphone app. The board has a maximum speed of 32 km/h, and the official model is scheduled for release in October.