Technology

Conversational AI, including large language models (LLMs), has become one of the most talked-about technologies in recent years, with far-reaching implications for science and society. Among the most notable LLMs is ChatGPT, an AI-powered chatbot that can convincingly converse with users on a wide range of topics in multiple languages. The Rise of ChatGPT and Other Large Language Models ChatGPT is just one of the latest LLMs released by OpenAI and other firms. It is free, easy to use, and con

Despite Growing Concern, Governments Fail to Act on Development of Autonomous Weapons In a recent opinion piece published in Nature, leading AI experts have called for a ban on lethal autonomous weapons, also known as "killer robots". The article highlights the lack of progress in negotiations around the development and deployment of these weapons, despite growing concern from human-rights and arms-control organizations, as well as the public. The Call for a Ban The Campaign to Stop Killer R

TikTok, the popular Chinese-owned social media app, has been in the crosshairs of various governments around the world due to concerns over data privacy and national security. The European Commission recently ordered its staff to remove the app from their phones and corporate devices to protect data and increase cybersecurity. The commission's management board made the decision for security reasons, and the ban also means that staff cannot use TikTok on personal devices that have official apps i

KOGAS, the world’s leading importer of liquefied natural gas (LNG), is set to explore the possibility of blending hydrogen with natural gas in its expansive gas pipeline network. The two-year project, which is a joint effort with DNV, will examine the suitability of KOGAS’ 5,000-kilometre-long transmission network for hydrogen blending. DNV will provide technical support and advisory services to KOGAS on the project, including assistance in meeting the requirements of South Korea’s regulatory au

Hydrogen has emerged as a promising solution to the challenges of decarbonizing some of the most carbon-intensive sectors, such as heavy industry, long-haul transportation, and seasonal energy storage. However, not all hydrogen is created equal, and its sustainability and environmental benefits depend on the method used to produce it. Hydrogen is the lightest and most abundant chemical element in the universe, making up 75% of all matter. However, it does not exist in its pure form in nature, b

Quantum computing is a topic that has been capturing the imagination of people for decades. With its promise of solving problems that classical computers cannot and its potential to change the way we live and work, it's not surprising that there is a lot of hype and speculation surrounding this field. However, not all of what you may have heard about quantum computing is accurate. In this editorial, we aim to separate fact from fiction and provide a clearer understanding of what quantum computin

The race to build practical quantum computers has shifted into a new phase. Some of the leading technologies are facing size constraints, while others are rapidly catching up. The two primary methods of building quantum computers include superconducting qubits and trapped-ion qubits. However, the use of single neutral atoms held with laser tweezers has become a competitor, and other techniques at an earlier stage of development could yet catch up. The Quest for Qubits Quantum computers promis

The availability of large data sets has made it simple to gain new insights using computers. As a result, algorithms have become more sophisticated and pervasive tools for automated decision-making.  An algorithm is a set of step-by-step instructions that computers follow to perform a task. The benefits of artificial intelligence appear obvious in that human decision-makers are far from perfect, and algorithms hold great promise for improving decision-quality.  Algorithms are harnessing massive