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This week: Private Spacewalk + more stories

This week: Private Spacewalk + more stories

Brett Bouchard
September 14, 2024

Wise Tech - Technology news for non-tech humans.

Private space exploration is here, but for the really rich right now!

1. First Private Spacewalk a Success

What’s the tech?
The first private spacewalk was conducted as part of SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission. This marked a major achievement for commercial space exploration.

How it’s used
Two astronauts, Jared Isaacman and Sarah Gillis, stepped outside the International Space Station (ISS). They tested new technologies and ran experiments while in space.

Why it’s news now
This is historic because private citizens—not just professional astronauts—participated in the spacewalk. As more private companies take part in space exploration, it could lead to new possibilities like space tourism or private research projects. This successful mission shows that private companies, like SpaceX, are playing a bigger role in space travel.

2. Apple AirPods Approved as Hearing Aids

What’s the tech?
Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 can now be used as over-the-counter hearing aids after getting FDA (Food and Drug Administration) approval.

How it’s used
Users can adjust the settings through their iPhone to help with hearing loss. This makes it a more affordable option than traditional hearing aids, which can be expensive.

Why it’s news now
This move by Apple could change how people manage hearing loss, making it easier and cheaper to get help. It also shows how everyday gadgets are evolving to address health needs. Apple is now a major player in the hearing health industry, and this could be a game-changer for people who need hearing aids but can’t afford them.

3. Highlights from Oprah’s AI TV Special

What’s the tech?
Oprah Winfrey hosted a special TV program about artificial intelligence (AI), which featured experts like Sam Altman (CEO of OpenAI) and Bill Gates (co-founder of Microsoft).

How it’s used
The special explained how AI could change areas like education and healthcare. There were also discussions about potential problems, like how AI might affect jobs or spread misinformation.

Why it’s news now
AI is becoming a bigger part of our everyday lives, and Oprah’s special helped people understand both the good and the bad.

Bonus Topic: First Ever 'Trifold' Smartphone Unveiled

What it does
Huawei has introduced a new foldable phone that can expand into a tablet-sized screen. This makes it different from other foldable phones on the market.

How it’s used
The phone folds in three parts, giving users a larger screen when needed. It’s packed with advanced technology, like high-resolution displays and a powerful processor (the central unit that controls the phone’s functions).

Why it’s popular
At $2,800, it’s aimed at tech enthusiasts who want the latest and most cutting-edge devices. Despite its high price, this phone could set trends for future smartphones, showing where mobile technology might be heading next.

Conversation starter:
“Have you seen that new foldable phone from Huawei? It turns into a tablet! What do you think about phones becoming more like mini computers?”