Electric Humanoid Robot Targets Physically Demanding Factory Jobs Boston Dynamics is preparing to deploy its advanced humanoid robot, Atlas, in Hyundai Motor Group’s U.S. manufacturing operations later this year. The robot will begin trial use at Hyundai’s Metaplant in Georgia, testing its capabilities in real industrial environments. The electric version of Atlas, revealed in April 2024, is designed for high-performance tasks such as lifting heavy components and sorting car parts. Its agility and strength, enabled by custom-built motors, position it as a potential game-changer in manufacturing. Scott Kuindersma, Senior Director of Robotics Research at Boston Dynamics, said Atlas is built…
Author: Kanika Sharma
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New Legal Framework to Bolster Private Enterprises China has taken a major step to support its private sector by passing its first dedicated law aimed at promoting private enterprise. This move highlights the country’s intent to strengthen a vital part of its economy, which is the second-largest in the world. The law was adopted on Wednesday during a session of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress. Following more than a year of legislative work, the law is set to take effect on 20 May 2025. With 78 articles grouped into nine chapters, the law addresses various key areas.…
Greenland Satellite Link Failure Disrupts Key Communications Several remote regions of Greenland have lost access to vital communication services, including internet, telephony, television, and radio, according to the Arctic island’s telecom provider, Tusass. The disruption occurred late on Monday and is linked to a loss of contact with satellite equipment located in Spain. Tusass stated that the affected satellite infrastructure, based in Maspalomas, Spain, is essential for delivering services to Greenland’s more isolated communities. The company confirmed that it currently has no communication with the equipment and is investigating the situation. Potential Link to Major Power Outage in Spain The…
New Zealand to Regulate Ground-Based Space Infrastructure by July New Zealand will introduce legislation in July to regulate operators of ground-based space infrastructure, Space Minister Judith Collins announced. The move aims to prevent foreign interference and strengthen the country’s national security. Concerns Over Foreign Interference The upcoming regulations follow warnings from New Zealand’s intelligence services. In September, they raised alarms about foreign attempts to establish space infrastructure that could support military activities against New Zealand’s interests. Although no specific country was named, the report highlighted China as a significant but not the only concern. New Zealand, as a member of…
Second Successful Test Marks Key Progress The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved another milestone on 24 April 2025, by successfully conducting a short-duration hot test of its Semicryogenic Engine. The test took place at the ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri. This ignition test marks the second major achievement following the successful first hot test held on 28 March 2025. The series of tests forms a critical part of ISRO’s ongoing Semicryogenic engine development programme. Each stage is designed to move the project closer to operational readiness for future launch vehicles. ISRO Hot Test Validates Start-up Sequence During this…
Mexican President Sheinbaum Calls for Changes to Controversial Telecoms Bill Mexican President Sheinbaum on Friday urged changes or removal of part of a new telecommunications bill. Critics had raised concerns that the proposed law could restrict free speech and lead to government censorship. The bill moved rapidly through Senate committees on Thursday, just a day after Claudia Sheinbaum first introduced it. This followed controversy over the local broadcast of a US government advertisement discouraging migration to the US. Sheinbaum insists the bill is meant to prevent foreign governments from spreading political or ideological propaganda in Mexico. Critics Raise Concerns About…
ISRO Heads International Charter for Next Six Months India has assumed the lead role in the “International Charter Space and Major Disasters” from April 2025, reaffirming its leadership in space-based disaster response. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), through its National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC), will coordinate the Charter’s activities for six months. The tenure began with the 53rd meeting of the Charter, held in Hyderabad from 14–17 April 2025. Organised by NRSC/ISRO, the meeting saw participation from leading global space agencies, with 22 foreign delegates attending in person. A Milestone Year for International Cooperation The International Charter marks its…
India Opening the Doors to Boost Clean Energy Goals with 49% Foreign Investment India may soon allow 49% foreign investment in its nuclear power plants, according to three government sources. The proposal marks a potential turning point in one of India’s most tightly controlled sectors, as the country seeks to shift away from coal and meet its carbon reduction targets. Discussions on changing the foreign investment rules in nuclear energy began in 2023. Now, with growing urgency to expand cleaner power sources, India is considering easing long-standing restrictions that have deterred global investors. The planned reforms come as India aims…
EU Fines Apple and Meta Under Landmark Tech Law EU fines Apple and Meta, the European Union has fined Apple €500 million ($570 million) and Meta €200 million as part of its first enforcement of the new Digital Markets Act (DMA). These penalties come after a year-long investigation into whether major tech firms comply with the new regulation aimed at increasing competition and limiting the dominance of Big Tech. Major Blow to Big Tech’s Business Models The European Commission, the EU’s executive body, concluded that both Apple and Meta breached the DMA, which was introduced to give smaller tech firms…
UAE Launches Ambitious Plan to Use AI in Legislative Process The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has announced a bold new plan to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) into the very heart of its lawmaking system. This initiative, termed “AI-driven regulation,” is set to redefine how laws are created, evaluated, and amended across the country. According to the Financial Times, the move is among the most ambitious government uses of AI seen globally. AI as a Legislative Co-Author Central to this initiative is the formation of a dedicated unit known as the Regulatory Intelligence Office. This office will lead the country’s effort…