Automation News Today

Microsoft Revives Retro Assistant Concept with AI-Powered ‘Mico’ for Copilot

Microsoft is giving its Copilot AI a face with “Mico,” an expressive animated assistant reminiscent of 1990s-era helpers like Clippy. The optional character represents Microsoft’s latest attempt to make AI interactions more engaging through human-centered design. This comes alongside new group chat capabilities and enhanced memory features in the Copilot Fall Release.

Microsoft’s Nostalgic Approach to AI Interaction

Microsoft is reintroducing animated digital assistants with its new “Mico” character for Copilot, according to recent reports. The company appears to be reviving concepts from its 1990s and early 2000s software, including the infamous Clippy and Microsoft Bob assistants, but now backed by modern artificial intelligence technology.

by Aaron ValeOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Innovation Software Technology

Programmer Successfully Runs Classic Doom Game on Orbiting ESA Satellite in Groundbreaking Experiment

A senior software developer has achieved what might be Doom’s most extraordinary port yet – running the classic game on an actual satellite in space. The experiment on ESA’s OPS-SAT satellite demonstrates the adaptability of open-source software for space applications and pushes the boundaries of orbital computing.

Historic Gaming Achievement in Orbit

In what represents one of the most unusual technological demonstrations in space history, a programmer has successfully run the classic 1993 game Doom on an orbiting satellite, according to reports from the Ubuntu Summit 25.10. The achievement marks perhaps the game’s most extraordinary port yet in its three-decade history of appearing on unexpected platforms.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Innovation Science Technology

Google Achieves Verifiable Quantum Computing Milestone with New Algorithm

Google has reportedly achieved a significant quantum computing breakthrough with its new Quantum Echoes algorithm. Sources indicate this marks the first verifiable demonstration of quantum advantage over classical supercomputers. The development could accelerate practical applications across multiple industries.

Quantum Computing Enters New Era with Verified Performance

Google Research has announced what sources indicate is a groundbreaking achievement in quantum computing, demonstrating for the first time that a quantum processor can complete calculations beyond classical computers’ capabilities while providing mathematical verification of the results. According to reports, this development represents a significant advancement beyond previous quantum computing claims and establishes a new benchmark for the field.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Energy Innovation Technology

Google Invests in Carbon Capture Power Plant Amid Industry Performance Questions

Google is investing in an Illinois natural gas power plant that aims to capture approximately 90% of its carbon emissions. The project comes as analysts suggest carbon capture facilities worldwide are underperforming expectations, with one similar Canadian plant capturing only half its target.

Google’s Carbon Capture Power Investment

Google will invest in a new natural gas power plant in Illinois that intends to capture the majority of its carbon emissions, according to reports. The 400-megawatt facility will be constructed outside Decatur adjacent to an Archer Daniels Midland ethanol plant that already employs carbon capture technology.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Innovation Science Technology

China Unveils Five-Year Strategy to Boost Scientific Independence Amid Global Tensions

China has approved a comprehensive five-year development blueprint prioritizing scientific and technological independence, according to state media reports. The announcement follows a four-day leadership meeting addressing what officials describe as “profound and complex” global changes. This strategic shift comes as economic pressures mount from international trade tensions and domestic market challenges.

New Development Blueprint Approved

China has unveiled a new five-year development plan focused on achieving greater self-reliance in science and technology, according to state media reports. The announcement came in an official communique following a four-day meeting where party leadership approved the draft development blueprint, signaling a strategic pivot toward technological independence amid growing global uncertainties.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Business Cybersecurity Software

Surfshark Expands Server Infrastructure with 40% Growth, Emphasizing Quality Over Quantity

Surfshark has expanded its server network by 40%, bringing its total to 4,500 servers worldwide. The VPN provider maintains that server quality and reliability matter more than sheer numbers in delivering superior user experience.

Significant Server Expansion

Surfshark has reportedly increased its server infrastructure by 40%, according to recent industry reports. Sources indicate the VPN provider has grown from 3,200 to 4,500 servers globally, marking a substantial expansion of its network capabilities.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Innovation Science Technology

Scientists Discover Enzyme’s Dual Role in Fat Regulation, Opening New Avenues for Obesity Therapy

Scientists have uncovered a surprising dual function for a key fat-metabolizing enzyme that operates both as a fat-breaker and gene regulator. This discovery helps explain why people with mutations in this enzyme develop lipodystrophy rather than obesity and could lead to new therapeutic strategies for metabolic disorders.

Enzyme’s Unexpected Dual Function Revealed

Scientists have discovered that a well-known fat-digesting enzyme plays a surprising second role as a genetic regulator within fat cells, according to a new study published in Cell Metabolism. The research reveals that hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), previously understood only as an enzyme that breaks down stored fat, also enters cell nuclei to control gene activity that maintains healthy fat tissue structure.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025

Business Startups Technology

Forbes Editor Iain Martin Recognized for Tech Industry Coverage and Leadership Profiles

Iain Martin, senior editor at Forbes, has been honored with a SABEW Award for his reporting on Stability AI. Based in London, he oversees prestigious lists including the Midas List and Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe Technology, profiling industry leaders like AMD’s Lisa Su.

Journalistic Excellence in Technology Reporting

Iain Martin, a senior editor at Forbes based in London, has been recognized with a SABEW Award for his 2024 coverage of artificial intelligence company Stability AI, according to industry reports. Sources indicate Martin’s work has established him as a leading voice in European technology journalism, with particular expertise in startups and venture capital markets.

by Elijah PorterOctober 23, 2025November 2, 2025