Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the search for extraterrestrial intelligence, with the SETI Institute at the forefront. Collaborating with the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, SETI is developing AI-driven software to process vast amounts of data from the Very Large Array in New Mexico. This initiative aims to enhance the detection of alien signals by identifying irregularities in the data. Despite decades of searching, the quest for extraterrestrial life remains challenging, but AI offers new hope in this scientific endeavor.

Ukrainian troops attacked bridges between Kherson and Crimea, causing significant damage to the Chongarsky bridge. Kherson's governor, Volodymyr Shaldo, condemned the attack and promised repairs. Despite the damage, communication between the regions continues via alternative routes. British-made Storm Shadow missiles were reportedly used. Crimean leader Sergei Aksyonov and other officials are assessing the damage and investigating the type of ammunition used. The attack has not significantly impacted logistical support to Crimea.

The Russian Ministry of Defense released a video showcasing the combat operations of the 2A36 Giatsint-B artillery in the Ukrainian war zone. Russian forces, including snipers and artillery units, have been targeting fortified Ukrainian positions and transport hubs. A Russian Su-34 bomber recently struck a gathering of foreign mercenaries in the Kharkiv region. The Russian military has also thwarted several Ukrainian attempts to advance. The Su-34, along with other aircraft like the Su-25, continues to play a significant role in the conflict, often engaging in missions to support ground operations and counter Ukrainian air defenses.

Meta's ambitious Metaverse project faces significant challenges, with internal and external skepticism growing. Despite substantial investments and advertising efforts, the focus appears to be shifting towards augmented reality rather than virtual reality. Key figures like Andrew Bosworth and John Carmack highlight the company's strategic pivot, while user engagement in platforms like Horizon Worlds declines. The future of the Metaverse remains uncertain, with potential failure looming over Meta's broader technological aspirations.

The article discusses the challenges faced by start-ups in raising investment capital, highlighting the success of Protex AI, which raised $18 million. Founders Dan Hobbs and Ciarán O’Mara shared their experiences at the Dublin Tech Summit, emphasizing the importance of persistence, networking, and understanding investor interests. Protex AI, working with brands like Marks & Spencer, uses AI and computer vision technologies to improve workplace safety. The company secured funding from notable investors including Notion, Playfair, Firstminute, Elkstone, and Y Combinator. The article also touches on the low success rate of start-ups in securing funding and the importance of building trust with investors over time.

Dyson has developed a portable air quality backpack that allows users to monitor air pollution in real-time. This device, which uses technology from Dyson air purifiers, can measure various pollutants and is accompanied by the Dyson Air Quality app for data analysis and visualization. The company is promoting awareness about air pollution through an online campaign and collaborations with influencers. The backpack was tested in Delhi NCR, where it tracked a mother's exposure to pollutants during her daily activities. Dyson has also introduced the Dyson Zone, a portable air purifier and noise-cancelling headphones combo. The company emphasizes its commitment to innovation and plans to expand its team of software developers to continue advancing its smart appliance technology.

Former US President Barack Obama discussed the challenges and dangers of Artificial Intelligence (AI) at the SNF Nostos Conference in Athens, organized by the Stavros Niarchos Foundation. He highlighted the potential for AI to disrupt jobs, especially routine ones, and the intensifying problem of misinformation, exacerbated by social media. Obama emphasized the need for governments and businesses to be equipped to harness AI's benefits while mitigating its risks, including the call for regulation. He also touched upon the broader challenges of the digital age, such as the impact on democracy and the need to educate youth to discern truth from falsehood. The discussion is part of the broader work of the Obama Presidential Center's Democracy In Action Lab.

The article discusses 'Ksou Ksou', a mobile app developed by Greek developer Apostolou Christos, designed to repel mosquitoes using high-frequency sound waves inaudible to humans. The app, which is free to download, has been positively received with over 150,000 downloads and user reports of reduced mosquito bites. The app's creator, interviewed by 4i Magazine, shared the inspiration behind the app, its technical workings, user feedback, and future plans, including expanding its pest-repellent capabilities to other common pests. The article also provides a background on Apostolou Christos, highlighting his academic background in agriculture and his passion for integrating technology with agricultural practices to enhance efficiency and sustainability.

The article discusses the growing concern among AI experts, including leaders from OpenAI, DeepMind, and Google, about the existential risks posed by uncontrolled AI development. A statement signed by 350 experts, including prominent figures like Geoffrey Hinton and executives from major tech companies, calls for global prioritization of AI risk mitigation. Former Google CEO Eric Schmidt expressed concerns at the Wall Street Journal’s CEO Council summit, and public opinion polls show that a majority of Americans are worried about AI's potential threats. The article also touches on the benefits of AI, with comments from a Stanford professor and the European Commission on how AI can improve quality of life and efficiency. The piece highlights the dichotomy in the AI debate, balancing the potential dangers with the possible advancements AI could bring to society.

Russian hackers from the pro-Russian collective NoName057 have targeted Italy, including the Ministry of Transport, the transport regulatory authority, and Atac, Rome's mobility company. The attacks, which are DDoS in nature, have been regular and are considered more of a nuisance than a strategic threat, as they do not involve data theft or damage to critical infrastructure. The group has been active since March 2022 and has targeted various countries supporting Ukraine. The new head of Italy's National Cybersecurity Agency, Bruno Frattasi, has been specifically threatened by NoName057.

The article provides recommendations for Christmas shopping, focusing on high-performance notebooks and quality headphones. It highlights three top-notch laptops: MacBook Air M1, Surface Laptop 4, and Asus ZenBook Pro Duo, each praised for their unique features and value. Additionally, it reviews three headphone models: Sony WH-1000XM5, Nothing Ear (1), and JBL Tune 500, emphasizing their design, performance, and affordability.

Zuckerberg's vision for the metaverse, starting with Horizon Home, borrows heavily from past projects like Second Life. The metaverse aims to integrate VR, AR, and 2D experiences across various devices, with the Quest Pro as a key access point. While Zuckerberg's project is innovative, it builds on the foundation laid by Linden Lab's Second Life, which created an open, limitless virtual world. The article also discusses the potential for a Facebook currency and the adoption of microservices in the metaverse.

Electronic devices, particularly smartphones and smartwatches, are highly desired Christmas gifts. Foldable smartphones, led by Samsung's Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4, are gaining popularity. Apple's iPhone remains a top choice despite production delays due to China's zero-Covid strategy. Xiaomi continues to grow with its value-for-money smartphones like the Xiaomi 12 Pro. In the smartwatch market, Apple's Watch Series 8 and Watch Ultra lead, followed by Samsung's Galaxy Watch 5 series and Huawei's elegant Watch GT 3 Pro.