Intel is Testing Artificial Intelligence Chips
Intel announced it is testing artificial intelligence chips capable of video analysis and other tasks using 1/5000th the energy of conventional chips. This can make automobiles, cameras, robots and other devices smarter without internet connectivity. Michael Mayberry, the research director, stated through Wired that "we plan to develop a production version with 130,000 neurons the size of a thumbnail in November, but commercialization is estimated to take over two years." IBM also developed such neuron chips, 'spiking neurons,' in 2014. However, it failed to commercialize as it could not demonstrate capabilities comparable to machine learning software operating on existing chips.

Step-Measurable GPS, Into Smartphones by Next Year?
GPS capable of measuring distances in step-level units will arrive in smartphones as early as next year. IEEE Spectrum reported that Broadcom, a U.S. communications integrated circuit manufacturer, has begun mass production of GPS chips that can achieve location accuracy of less than 30 centimeters. Current GPS performance can measure up to 3-5 meters. In particular, the new GPS chip maintains high accuracy even in densely built urban areas with tall buildings. Broadcom stated through IEEE Spectrum that the new chip will be installed in certain smartphones next year. However, Qualcomm, which supplies major mobile phone modems for Samsung and LG, announced that it has no plans to launch the GPS chip.

Uber's London Operations Banned
Uber, which had been operating well in various places around the world, may no longer be able to operate in London. London Transport announced on September 30th that Uber would not be granted a private hire operator's license. London Transport determined that Uber's policies regarding driver criminal background checks and responses to medical and safety concerns were inadequate. Business Insider reported that London Transport plans to appeal Uber's classification of registered drivers as workers rather than self-employed individuals. The term 'workers' means they are entitled to receive minimum wage. This was reported as a factor that could reduce Uber's revenue. Uber stated it will contest the decision.

Artificial Muscle of Robots Manufactured with 3D Printer Mechanical engineers at Columbia University have developed synthetic soft muscle that can be manufactured with a 3D printer. It is three times stronger than human muscle. With tiny pores in silicone rubber, the material has low density and excellent elasticity. It can be produced in any shape by 3D printing, with thin wire embedded inside for electrical operation. In an interview with New Atlas, the research team stated, "We have made significant progress in creating the brain of robots, but the robot body is still primitive. We have overcome one of the final barriers to actual robot manufacturing." Artificial muscle can push, pull, bend, twist, and lift like human muscle. When heated to 80 degrees Celsius with 8V of electricity, it can expand up to 900% and lift 1,000 times its own weight.