First quantum computer blueprint. University of Sussex in the UK has published what the researchers say is the first practical blueprint to build an ultra-powerful quantum computer that could solve problems beyond the capability of machines based on conventional electronics. The work features a new invention permitting actual quantum bits to be transmitted between individual quantum computing modules in order to obtain a fully modular large-scale machine capable of reaching nearly arbitrary large computational processing powers. If built, it would be the most powerful computer on Earth.
Liquid crystal to triple screen sharpness. A new blue-phase liquid crystal could enable televisions, computer screens and other displays to pack up to 1,500 pixels per inch on a small-sized screen while also reducing the power needed to run the device. The breakthrough is particularly anticipated for virtual reality headsets and augmented reality that relies on high resolution in a small screen.
Printing with light. Tied of buying cartridges? An international team of researchers developed a nanoparticle coating that's easy to apply to normal paper and changes color when ultraviolet (UV) light shines on it. The color change can be reversed when the coating is heated to 120 degrees Celsius (248 degrees Fahrenheit), and allows for up to 80 rewrites.
Tesla factory in Minecraft. In their efforts to woo Tesla Motors, Lithuanian gamers built an entire factory to impress the electric carmaker inside the Minecraft video game. Responding to a plan announced last year by Tesla CEO Elon Musk to build a second factory in Europe, 40 gamers used the popular online building game to construct a virtual replica—in just 35 hours—of the company's battery production plant.
Campaign by hologram. French far-left candidate Jean-Luc Melenchon appeared to supporters by hologram on Sunday in a technological first for a presidential campaign in France. While speaking in person in Lyon, he also appeared to 6,000 supporters in a concert hall 450 kilometers away in Paris.
