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AI successes: robodog hikes in the Alps

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It is impossible to imagine daily life without AI. In several areas, robots and diagnostic devices are speeding up and simplifying procedures. Every day, new successes are achieved in the field of AI. In the following article, we report on the beginnings and current achievements of AI technology.

History of AI

The beginnings of artificial intelligence occurred as early as 1936 when Alan Turing invented the eponymous Turing machine. Thereby, he laid the foundation for machines that could independently identify algorithms, proving that machines could mimic cognitive processes by breaking them down into small steps. In 1956, the term AI was coined by John McCarthy at a scientific conference.

In 1966, the first chatbot is created which was able to communicate with humans as a computer program and, for example, represent a psychotherapist as a conversation partner. Finally, in 1972, a program was written to assist in medical diagnosis and therapy. In 1997, the machine was officially superior to humans for the first time when a computer – the AI chess machine Deep Blue – defeated the world champion in a chess tournament. Even today, many players regularly compete against machines. Those who want to try their luck themselves can do so at various online gaming arcades. There, players can compete in live tournaments against both human competitors and machine opponents. Since there is a wide selection of online casinos, various comparison portals help to find the best bonus offers and the largest game selection. Such sites are available for free with just one click and provide a good overview to find the best online betting sites in UAE, for example. Since 2011, AI programs have arrived in people’s everyday lives: That year, Apple’s Siri is launched, bringing AI into numerous households. Cortana from Microsoft followed in 2014, and Alexa from Amazon Echo in 2015.

 

Latest technical achievements in the field of AI

Recently, new successes have been celebrated again, which join the long success story of AI: researchers developed a four-legged robot and taught it to walk so that it can now move like a dog. “ANYmal” can walk quickly and safely over uneven terrain while making its own decisions. Like a human on a challenging hiking trip, many considerations must be strived for and decided upon to safely hike difficult trails, such as where the trail is more level and safer to walk on.

To make a decision, many different sensory impressions and experiences have to be evaluated. ANYmal succeeded in learning to do this, as it recently proved by hiking through the Alps. In preparation, the robot was taught in a virtual world to combine its visual perception of the environment and the sense of touch in its legs. This enables the robot to roam through unknown terrain. Such robots might assist in future times with exploring dangerous and complex environments where conventional robots fail, the developers say. The fact that the robot can easily walk such a difficult terrain can be considered a great success.

Previously, many developers struggled to design such a robot, blaming several factors. Transferring the required complex performance capabilities to autonomous robotic systems poses a problem for many inventors. The reason mainly is that the necessary information is provided by laser sensors and information recorded with cameras that represent the immediate environment is often ambiguous. Tallgrass, a small puddle or a little mound of snow can therefore seem like insurmountable obstacles to the robot. As a result, the program has to learn for itself which images and information it trusts and what it relies on.

As a result, the robot had to learn to focus on its sense of touch for environmental orientation and to make spontaneous decisions. The robot’s hike through the complex terrain in the Alps which is completed without any problems proves that it has now succeeded in this. If in the future the dangerous job of an explorer is no longer taken on by humans, but by AI-programmed robots, it is possible that many human lives will be saved and new exciting insights can still be provided. ANYmal and its successors could also be ready to traverse an area after an earthquake, nuclear disaster, or during and after forest fires and provide support.

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United Airlines will offer free internet on flights using service from Elon Musk’s SpaceX

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CHICAGO (AP) — United Airlines has struck a deal with Elon Musk’s SpaceX to offer satellite-based Starlink WiFi service on flights within the next several years.

The airline said Friday the service will be free to passengers.

United said it will begin testing the service early next year and begin offering it on some flights by later in 2025.

Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

The announcement comes as airlines rush to offer more amenities as a way to stand out when passengers pick a carrier for a trip. United’s goal is to make sitting on a plane pretty much like being on the ground when it comes to browsing the internet, streaming entertainment and playing games.

“Everything you can do on the ground, you’ll soon be able to do on board a United plane at 35,000 feet, just about anywhere in the world,” CEO Scott Kirby said in announcing the deal.

The airline says Starlink will allow passengers to get internet access even over oceans and polar regions where traditional cell or Wi-Fi signals may be weak or missing.

The Canadian Press. All rights reserved.

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How to Preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada

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Sony has made it easy for Canadian consumers to preorder the PlayStation 5 Pro in Canada directly from PlayStation’s official website. Here’s how:

  • Visit the Official Website: Go to direct.playstation.com and navigate to the PS5 Pro section once preorders go live on September 26, 2024.
  • Create or Log in to Your PlayStation Account: If you don’t have a PlayStation account, you will need to create one. Existing users can simply log in to proceed.
  • Place Your Preorder: Once logged in, follow the instructions to preorder your PS5 Pro. Ensure you have a valid payment method ready and double-check your shipping information for accuracy.

Preorder Through Major Canadian Retailers

While preordering directly from PlayStation is a popular option, you can also secure your PS5 Pro through trusted Canadian retailers. These retailers are expected to offer preorders on or after September 26:

  • Best Buy Canada
  • Walmart Canada
  • EB Games (GameStop)
  • Amazon Canada
  • The Source

Steps to Preorder via Canadian Retailers:

  • Visit Retailer Websites: Search for “PlayStation 5 Pro” on the website of your preferred retailer starting on September 26.
  • Create or Log in to Your Account: If you’re shopping online, having an account with the retailer can speed up the preorder process.
  • Preorder in Store: For those who prefer in-person shopping, check with local stores regarding availability and preorder policies.

3. Sign Up for Notifications

Many retailers and websites offer the option to sign up for notifications when the preorder goes live. If you’re worried about missing out due to high demand, this can be a useful option.

  • Visit Retailer Sites: Look for a “Notify Me” or “Email Alerts” option and enter your email to stay informed.
  • Use PlayStation Alerts: Sign up for notifications directly through Sony to be one of the first to know when preorders are available.

4. Prepare for High Demand

Preordering the PS5 Pro is expected to be competitive, with high demand likely to result in quick sellouts, just as with the initial release of the original PS5. To maximize your chances of securing a preorder:

  • Act Quickly: Be prepared to place your order as soon as preorders open. Timing is key, as stock can run out within minutes.
  • Double-Check Payment Information: Ensure your credit card or payment method is ready to go. Any delays during the checkout process could result in losing your spot.
  • Stay Informed: Monitor PlayStation and retailer websites for updates on restocks or additional preorder windows.

Final Thoughts

The PlayStation 5 Pro is set to take gaming to the next level with its enhanced performance, graphics, and new features. Canadian gamers should be ready to act fast when preorders open on September 26, 2024, to secure their console ahead of the holiday season. Whether you choose to preorder through PlayStation’s official website or your preferred retailer, following the steps outlined above will help ensure a smooth and successful preorder experience.

For more details on the PS5 Pro and to preorder, visit direct.playstation.com or stay tuned to updates from major Canadian retailers.

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Introducing the PlayStation 5 Pro: The Next Evolution in Gaming

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Since the PlayStation 5 (PS5) launched four years ago, PlayStation has continuously evolved to meet the demands of its players. Today, we are excited to announce the next step in this journey: the PlayStation 5 Pro. Designed for the most dedicated players and game creators, the PS5 Pro brings groundbreaking advancements in gaming hardware, raising the bar for what’s possible.

Key Features of the PS5 Pro

The PS5 Pro comes equipped with several key performance enhancements, addressing the requests of gamers for smoother, higher-quality graphics at a consistent 60 frames per second (FPS). The console’s standout features include:

  • Upgraded GPU: The PS5 Pro’s GPU boasts 67% more Compute Units than the current PS5, combined with 28% faster memory. This allows for up to 45% faster rendering speeds, ensuring a smoother gaming experience.
  • Advanced Ray Tracing: Ray tracing capabilities have been significantly enhanced, with reflections and refractions of light being processed at double or triple the speed of the current PS5, creating more dynamic visuals.
  • AI-Driven Upscaling: Introducing PlayStation Spectral Super Resolution, an AI-based upscaling technology that adds extraordinary detail to images, resulting in sharper image clarity.
  • Backward Compatibility & Game Boost: More than 8,500 PS4 games playable on PS5 Pro will benefit from PS5 Pro Game Boost, stabilizing or enhancing performance. PS4 games will also see improved resolution on select titles.
  • VRR & 8K Support: The PS5 Pro supports Variable Refresh Rate (VRR) and 8K gaming for the ultimate visual experience, while also launching with the latest wireless technology, Wi-Fi 7, in supported regions.

Optimized Games & Patches

Game creators have quickly embraced the new technology that comes with the PS5 Pro. Many games will receive free updates to take full advantage of the console’s new features, labeled as PS5 Pro Enhanced. Some of the highly anticipated titles include:

  • Alan Wake 2
  • Assassin’s Creed: Shadows
  • Demon’s Souls
  • Dragon’s Dogma 2
  • Final Fantasy 7 Rebirth
  • Gran Turismo 7
  • Marvel’s Spider-Man 2
  • Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart
  • Horizon Forbidden West

These updates will allow players to experience their favorite games at a higher fidelity, taking full advantage of the console’s improved graphics and performance.

 

 

Design & Compatibility

Maintaining consistency within the PS5 family, the PS5 Pro retains the same height and width as the original PS5 model. Players will also have the option to add an Ultra HD Blu-ray Disc Drive or swap console covers when available.

Additionally, the PS5 Pro is fully compatible with all existing PS5 accessories, including the PlayStation VR2, DualSense Edge, Pulse Elite, and Access controller. This ensures seamless integration into your current gaming setup.

Pricing & Availability

The PS5 Pro will be available starting November 7, 2024, at a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) of:

  • $699.99 USD
  • $949.99 CAD
  • £699.99 GBP
  • €799.99 EUR
  • ¥119,980 JPY

Each PS5 Pro comes with a 2TB SSD, a DualSense wireless controller, and a copy of Astro’s Playroom pre-installed. Pre-orders begin on September 26, 2024, and the console will be available at participating retailers and directly from PlayStation via direct.playstation.com.

The launch of the PS5 Pro marks a new chapter in PlayStation’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge gaming experiences. Whether players choose the standard PS5 or the PS5 Pro, PlayStation aims to provide the best possible gaming experience for everyone.

Preorder your PS5 Pro and step into the next generation of gaming this holiday season.

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