Researchers to build Babbage Analytical Engine

Xeni Jardin 9:58 am Tue Nov 8, 2011

Over the next decade, a group of researchers in the UK will attempt to construct a working version of Charles Babbage's Analytical Engine, which he dreamed up a hundred years ago, but did not complete. John Markoff has the story in the New York Times today, and here's a related interactive feature. Cory blogged about the project recently on Boing Boing, and the legacy of Babbage, a great mathematician, philisopher, and engineer, is a favorite topic in our archives (see links below).

Right to repair law, America's first, approved by New York legislature

After sailing through New York's legislature, America's first right-to-repair bill may soon head to governor Kathy Hochul for approval. The law obliges technology manufacturers to make tools and parts available to independent repair shops. Spectrum Local News: Supporters of the bill, including [assemblywoman] Fahy, said the bill will allow for economic growth in this sector… READ THE REST
Bartending robot can make your favorite drink and crack jokes with you

This bartending robot can make your favorite drink and crack jokes with you. It's programmed to take in information about the faces and speech patterns of its customers. Using this information, it tries to determine your mood so that it knows how to interact with you. It wears a little vest and a bowtie to… READ THE REST
PlayStation 5 jailbroken

Sony's PlayStation 5 game console has been jailbroken, meaning that users may soon be running their own software on it. Marco Cocomello: The most exciting part of the PS5 jailbreak comes at the end of the video where the hacker installs the infamous Silent Hills P.T Demo which was officially delisted from the PlayStation Store… READ THE REST
This electronic muscle stimulator might keep your snooze void of snores

We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. It ain't easy being sleepy, that's for sure. There's a lot to keep you up at night, so don't let your snoring be another factor. An electronic muscle stimulator like the Snore Circle… READ THE REST
This refurbished Apple iPad Pro is under $200 today and tomorrow

We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. Stop drooling over everyone else's iPad and treat yourself to one of your very own. During our December Deal of the Day event, we're releasing new discounts that only last 24… READ THE REST
Get these Beats earbuds with free shipping and guaranteed delivery by Christmas

We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. Like us, you love a holiday jam or two. Voices singing "Let's be jolly?" We eat that up. Choir bells ringing? Can't get enough. Marshmallows for toasting and caroling out in the snow?… READ THE REST