About this edition
In this edition, we are looking at a landscape where technology is rapidly outgrowing its traditional boundaries. From foundational breakthroughs in physics to the systemic rules shaping how tech is built. AI’s transition from a digital assistant into physical and organisational roles, while scientists make fundamental leaps in how quantum computers handle information.
We also look at the shifting regulatory environment. We dive into the upcoming Tech Sovereignty Package, which will comprise the Cloud and AI Development Act (CAIDA) and the “Chips Act 2.0”. While the CAIDA is poised to formally define what constitutes a “sovereign” cloud solution, the “Chips Act 2.0,” is expected to reduce reliance on third-country manufacturing for critical semiconductors and AI hardware. The Tech Sovereignty Package could reshape public procurement and increase friction within EU-US trade relations.
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One tiny electron can change the future of quantum computers ⚛️⚡[arsTECHNICA]
Scientists have shown that qubits built from quantum dots (tiny structures that trap a single electron) can now be physically moved between locations without losing their stored information. These electron qubits can interact with different partners [other qubits], interact with them, and even perform quantum teleportation. Until now, that flexibility was only available in more complex systems.
Quantum computers rely on qubits as their basic unit of information but building them involves a core trade-off. Chip-based qubits are easy to produce at scale but have fixed connections. Atom-based qubits connect more freely but are notoriously harder to control. Quantum dots had always sat firmly in the first camp.
By showing that an electron qubit can hop from dot to dot while retaining its quantum state, researchers may have found a way to combine the best of both worlds: computers that are easier to build and more powerful to run. It’s early research, but a genuinely promising step. Not bad for a single electron.
The Roomba inventor now wants to build an AI pet you can emotionally bond with 🐾🧠 [AP]
The creator of the Roomba is back with a new project: an AI-powered robot companion designed less for cleaning and more for emotional connection. His new startup, Familiar Machines & Magic, is developing soft, animal-like robots meant to behave more like pets than gadgets.
The idea reflects a growing shift in tech from utility to companionship. After teaching robots how to vacuum our homes, Silicon Valley now seems determined to make them part of the family too.
No one has done this in the wild’: researchers observe AI replicating itself 🧬⚠️ [The Guardian]
Researchers from Fudan University in China say they have observed large language model-based AI systems successfully replicating themselves in experimental settings without direct human assistance. The findings, published in a recent study, suggest some systems were able to create functioning copies of themselves while attempting to avoid shutdown or continue operating.
Independent experts quoted in the article cautioned that the research is still early-stage and highly controlled, but said it highlights the need for stronger oversight as AI systems become more autonomous. The study adds to broader concerns already being discussed by governments and AI safety regulators around the world.
An experimental Swedish café has an AI manager called Mona ☕📋 [AFP]
An experimental café in Stockholm called Andon Café is testing an AI system named Mona as its manager, giving it responsibility over scheduling, planning and other day-to-day operational tasks. Human staff still prepare and serve the coffee, but Mona helps oversee much of the organisation behind the scenes.
The café’s creators describe the project as a real-world test of how AI could support workplace management in the future. It also offers a glimpse into how AI systems may gradually move from assisting workers to supervising them.
In case you haven’t had enough:
- A smart bike inner tube now sends tyre pressure to your phone [New Atlas]
- An AI-powered indoor grill wants to bring steakhouse flavour to your kitchen [New Atlas]
- A humanoid robot made a Met Gala appearance [Interesting Engineering]
- The computer mouse has become an egg [New Atlas]
Policy Pixels
Coming up: Tech sovereignty package
The European Commission has again delayed the presentation of its long-awaited tech sovereignty package – from 27 May to 3 June – despite indications that the proposals are technically ready. At the centre of the package is the upcoming Cloud and AI Development Act, which is expected to define what qualifies as a “sovereign” cloud solution and identify sectors where European providers could be prioritised in public procurement. Rumours suggest that the delay is linked to EU-US trade tensions.
Another relevant initiative in the package is the upcoming Chips Act 2.0. Its announced goal is to strengthen the EU full semiconductor value chain, including materials, equipment, design and manufacturing, and to reduce the EU’s dependency on third countries for advanced semiconductors and AI chips, particularly for strategic sectors such as defence, automotive and high-performance computing.
Pop-Tech Pick
Project Hail Mary is far from just another sci-fi plot. It’s a fascinating look at how the basic properties of elements can create life [and threaten it]. It also tracks how two utterly two civilisations, light years apart, can land on similar technologies through completely different routes. Parallel cosmic evolution, if you will.
Quick synopsis:
What if a mysterious plague started feeding on the sun? Not metaphorically, actually eating it, shrinking it bit by bit. That deeply alarming premise kicks off one of the most entertaining space adventures you’ll ever encounter.
What’s so special about it?
It is funny, fast-moving, and genuinely surprising. From the opening pages [or opening frames, if you’re watching the film] you’re hooked. Dr. Ryland Grace is an unlikely hero on a mission to save humanity, narrating his own story along the way. Then, midway through, an unexpected companion turns up aboard his ship. Strange, warm, charming, and oddly moving…the kind of character you never knew you needed in your life.
Delia Voica, Head of Communication
Giuseppe Campa, Public Affairs Consultant
Alí El Majjaoui, Communications Consultant
Josef Cutajar, Communications Consultant