Bits & Atomen

Practical tips for using AI to quickly generate and improve small programs and browser games. Steps for turning AI code into playable apps and automating builds with agents. Discussion of TikTok ownership concerns and age-verification ideas for social platforms. Short science highlights on a dimming star, dancing microscale robots, infant microbiomes, and reusing bitcoin-mining heat to warm homes.

Meta is cutting back on its Metaverse investments, sparking questions about Zuckerberg's commitment. The podcast dives into the murky waters of microplastics, highlighting doubts in their detection and the risks of contamination. In a tech twist, Apple opts for Google's LLMs over OpenAI's for Siri. Listeners will also discover why dogs have floppy ears, the latest on China's ambitious satellite plans, and a surprising study showing cows using tools. With discussions on AI, animal intelligence, and a new TikTok app, there's a lot to chew on!

Roodharig zijn is niet per se een voordeel. Zo zouden roodharige mensen bijvoorbeeld meer kans op huidkanker hebben. Maar goed nieuws: er zijn niet alleen nadelen. Pieter Van Dooren vertelt er alles over in Bits & atomen. Verder blikt Dominique Deckmyn terug op zijn bezoek aan de CES-beurs in Las Vegas, hebben we het over de chatbot van Elon Musk die zich weer misdraagt en over hoe lang we al op twee benen lopen. Journalist Pieter Van Dooren, Dominique Deckmyn | Audioproductie Joris Van Damme | Muziek Brecht Plasschaert | Chef podcast Alexander Lippeveld See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join a tech journalist live from the CES in Las Vegas, where robots take center stage! Discover the LG Cloyd home robot and its impressive capabilities. Explore the future of AI with wearable devices and screenless phones. Learn about recent bear evolution studies showing rapid adaptations, and hear how Mars dust storms create lightning-like sparks that could reshape its atmosphere. Plus, enjoy a fascinating segment on archaeological finds, including a 5,000-year-old conch trumpet with incredible sound!

Discover the mysteries of quasars, supermassive black holes that could reshape our understanding of cosmic expansion. Recent studies challenge long-held beliefs about the consistency of their light. Delve into the limitations of large language models and explore new tech possibilities like robotics and world models. Uncover the enigma of why ice is slippery with competing theories and learn about the intriguing Disney-OpenAI partnership for creating AI-generated videos. Join the hosts as they unpack these captivating discussions!

In this conversation, science journalist Senne Starckx reveals the ESA's newfound ambitions amid a significant €22.3B budget boost. He explores how the agency is branching into defense and enhancing resilience in space navigation and communication. Upcoming missions, including asteroid exploration and plans for a Europa lander, showcase ESA's expanding role. Additionally, the discussion touches on AI's surprising ability to alter opinions and innovative technology like satellite tracking for wildlife, offering a fascinating glimpse into the future of space and science.

Australia's radical social media ban for kids sparks debate, while Belgium remains cautious despite evidence from the High Health Council. The hosts explore surprising topics, from the sex lives of diatoms to dinosaur mating theories, revealing insights from recent studies. They also discuss the curious world of AI, including how certain rhymed prompts can outsmart chatbots. Additionally, a consumer warning regarding misleading health gadgets adds an intriguing twist. Tune in for a mix of science and social commentary!

Annelies Duerinckx, a researcher with Scivil, discusses the Mar-Alee project aimed at improving AI recognition of Flemish dialects by collecting diverse speech data. Linguist Melissa Schuring shares insights on the challenges and ethics of recording children's speech for research. Movement scientist Jelle Habay addresses transparency in scientific practices, recounting his own experimental failures and the importance of publishing both successes and setbacks. The conversation highlights the need for inclusive data to enhance language technology and the complexities of scientific research.

The podcast dives into the exciting world of quantum computing, exploring why major tech companies are racing to achieve quantum advantage. It also discusses IBM's advancements and challenges in scaling qubit technology. A fascinating debate arises about when quantum will become practically useful. Other intriguing topics include brain-scanning technologies that decode thoughts, regulatory changes pressuring WhatsApp to interconnect with other chat apps, and an innovative plan for space mirrors to light up Earth.

In this discussion, Lode Lauwaert, a philosophy professor at KU Leuven specializing in technology and AI ethics, dives into the existential risks posed by superintelligent AI. He explores alarmist views on potential global catastrophe and the nuances of AGI versus narrow AI. Lauwaert highlights the