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Basket : Weekly Tech News

  • Dimitris Schoen
  • May 14
  • 4 min read

In this episode of Basket, we start by discussing the upcoming Google IO showcase, providing insights into how the latest software advancements will shape everyday digital experiences. We will also cover the releases of iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 26.5. Following this, we introduce a new technique for detecting black hole collisions, illustrating how scientific innovation enhances our understanding of the universe. Finally, we reflect on Pope Francis's warning about replacing human relationships, a reminder to consider the social impact of rapid technological growth. Key takeaways include the rapid advancement of AI in operating systems, significant progress in both space science and vehicle automation, and the importance of balancing technological benefits with human connections.



Google is set to unveil its most significant update in years, introducing new products, including the world's first AI operating system. Android is about to become more intelligent with Android 17, driven by Gemini Intelligence. Anticipated features include Rambler, a new voice dictation tool for all your favourite apps. Gemini is coming to Chrome, already available on PC/Mac. (Use Gemini in Chrome, 2025) Android 17 will feature 3D emojis and two new tools. Pause Point helps you use your smartphone more effectively; it can suggest break times when you've been scrolling for too long or automatically activate Do Not Disturb mode during meetings and focus periods, helping you manage screen time and distractions in your daily routine. Creator mode is designed for influencers; this feature allows content creators to quickly shoot and edit short videos directly on their devices, schedule posts across multiple social media platforms, and access AI-driven suggestions to boost engagement. The main takeaway is that Google's innovations highlight a move towards smarter, more adaptive user experiences and tools for creators.




Concentrating on Apple, the company is preparing to release iOS, iPadOS, and macOS 26.5, featuring a variety of security upgrades such as RCS Encryption, new Pride Wallpapers, and other exciting additions. The update is currently available for download. (Clover, 2026) The focus is on Apple's commitment to enhancing digital security and inclusivity in its updates.





In the cool Section, researchers from the international LIGO, Virgo, and Kagra gravitational wave observatories have devised a technique to identify cosmic events like black hole collisions. This technique is similar to pitch correction in music production, where audio software adjusts the frequency of a voice or instrument to match a specific note. In the realm of gravitational wave detection, this method helps scientists enhance and clarify subtle signals from space, allowing them to filter out noise and focus on the true "pitch" of distant cosmic events. (Gravitational wave detectors can now 'autotune' signals to harmonise the heavens, 2026) Below are statements from two scientists involved. The full article is accessible here and was published by LBC. The main takeaway is that new scientific methods are enhancing our ability to detect and analyze cosmic phenomena.


“Dr Daniel Williams from the University of Glasgow’s Institute for Gravitational Research, said: “These discoveries demonstrate that, over our decade of work since the first detection, we have developed a comprehensive understanding of our entire analysis pipeline, from the signals themselves to the detector behaviour.


“In the rare instance that something goes wrong with one detector, we now have robust back-up methods to compensate and leverage data from the other detectors to give us the best-quality results.”


Professor Stephen Fairhurst, of Cardiff University, who is the LIGO Scientific Collaboration’s spokesperson, said: “It’s remarkable that these massive cosmic events can not only be measured by our instruments, but actually used to check our measurements.”


He added, “We’re moving from the era of first discoveries to the era of precision gravitational wave astronomy. We can be confident that our next observing runs will continue to build our rapidly-growing catalogue of gravitational-wave discoveries, and expand our understanding of the universe.”



In our major focus for this week, to wrap up, we wish to reflect on and share our perspective regarding Pope Francis's caution about technology taking the place of human relationships.


It is essential to acknowledge the positive impact of technology across various sectors. Technological advancements have improved healthcare, resulting in increased life expectancies and the creation of new treatments. (Interdependent innovations in science and technology are reshaping treatment paradigms, 2024) Furthermore, road safety has benefited from these advancements. (Olayode et al., 2023, pp. 1037-1060) Social media platforms have enabled broader communication and the global sharing of work. (McCosker, 2017) In some cases, technology has supported mental health and promoted greater openness among users. (Bond et al., 2023)


On the other hand, technology has brought about specific challenges such as online harassment, hate, stalking, mental health issues, the difficulty of balancing digital and physical identities, new digital addictions, isolation, and a decline in trust among people. Additionally, there are worries about AI's unauthorized use of writers' and musicians' work. These concerns have led to the formation of groups critical of technology, with some advocating radical viewpoints.


Considering Pope Francis's caution, we understand the significance of using technology wisely and responsibly. To mitigate potential negative effects, try designating specific screen-free periods each day, such as during meals or an hour before bed, to engage with friends or family without digital distractions. Consider regular "digital detox" weekends, where you limit the use of social media or non-essential apps. For creators, utilize watermarking tools, maintain clear copyright notices, and explore platforms that help monitor and safeguard your work from unauthorized AI use. Planning in-person activities, like walks or meet-ups, can promote genuine connections outside digital environments. These straightforward, practical measures can help restore trust and balance between technology and everyday life, and contribute to stronger human relationships. At Basket, we believe he was right to warn us.


References


Trim, P. R. & Lee, Y. (2023). Managing Cybersecurity Threats and Increasing Organisational Resilience. Big Data Cogn. Comput. 2023. https://doi.org/10.3390/bdcc7040177


(2025). Use Gemini in Chrome. Google Support. https://support.google.com/gemini/answer/16283624?hl=en


Clover, J. (May 11, 2026). Apple Releases iOS 26.5 and iPadOS 26.5 With End-to-End Encrypted RCS, New Wallpaper, and Maps Updates. MacRumors. https://www.macrumors.com/2026/05/11/apple-releases-ios-26-5/


(May 14, 2026). Gravitational wave detectors can now 'autotune' signals to harmonise the heavens. Phys.org. https://phys.org/visualstories/2026-05-gravitational-detectors-autotune-harmonize-heavens.amp


Scientists can now 'hear' black holes colliding



McCosker, A. (2017). Social media work: reshaping organisational communications, extracting digital value. Media International Australia 163(1). https://doi.org/10.1177/1329878X17693702


Bond, R. R., Mulvenna, M. D., Potts, C., O’Neill, S., Ennis, E. & Torous, J. (2023). Digital Transformation of Mental Health Services. npj Mental Health Research 2. https://doi.org/10.1038/s44184-023-00033-y


(n.d.). Online Hate and Harassment: The American Experience 2023. https://www.adl.org/resources/report/online-hate-and-harassment-american-experience-2023








 
 
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