Latest news with #Komondor
Budapest Times
4 days ago
- Politics
- Budapest Times
Government Commissioner Palkovics: Current AI structures unlikely to lead to consciousness
'Humanity does not accidentally create adversaries—we build tools to help us,' the government commissioner said. László Palkovics, Government Commissioner for Artificial Intelligence, stated that artificial intelligence in its current form is unlikely to become self-aware. Speaking on the latest episode of the Bold Truth About Hungary podcast hosted by State Secretary Zoltán Kovács, he emphasized that conscious AI would require deliberate intent. 'Why would humanity want to create an enemy? We already have enough,' he said. Palkovics argued that concerns over conscious AI are better suited for philosophical discussion than scientific debate. 'These are interesting fears, good for conversations—but mostly with philosophers or theologians, not mathematicians or engineers,' he added. Discussing the foundations of AI development, he outlined four critical factors: access to data, computational power, a suitable legal and financial environment, and intent paired with talent. 'Hungary possesses all four,' he said, pointing to structured national data sets in agriculture, forestry, wildlife management, and healthcare, as well as the Central Statistical Office's archives. He noted that Hungary already operates several smaller supercomputers, including the Komondor system in Debrecen, and announced plans for a procurement process to acquire a 20-petaflop machine named Levente. The country's energy mix, he added, supports the operational demands of such systems, including their need for continuous and increasingly renewable energy. Addressing calls for Hungarian-made, Hungarian-language AI models, Palkovics acknowledged their limitations compared to global systems but stressed their utility in domain-specific applications. 'The value lies in the data we train them on—and we have a lot of usable, well-structured data,' he said. He also defended Hungary's Digital Citizenship Program, rejecting fears of surveillance. 'It is a service that simplifies and improves state operations while making citizens' lives more convenient,' he stated. Reflecting on his previous cabinet role, Palkovics concluded that the government now recognizes the untapped potential of existing national data for policy preparation and public service modernization.
Indian Express
22-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Meet the dog breed that has hair resembling dreadlocks
If you ever spot a dog that looks like it just walked out of a reggae music video or resembles a giant walking mop, don't be too surprised — you've probably just met a Komondor. This incredibly unique breed, originally from Hungary, is best known for its wild, rope-like coat that looks a lot like dreadlocks. But these cords aren't a fashion statement — they're actually built-in protection. The Komondor was traditionally used to guard livestock, and its dense coat helped shield it from both harsh weather and would-be predators. The transformation into its signature look doesn't happen overnight. Komondors are born with soft, fluffy fur, and as they grow — typically around 8 to 12 months — the fur begins to naturally separate into cords. It's fascinating to watch, and yes, a little messy too. Despite their shaggy look, Komondors are calm, clever, and incredibly loyal. They're known for being gentle with their families but can be a bit wary of strangers — probably a leftover trait from their guarding days on the farms of Hungary. These dogs do need some upkeep. While the cords form naturally, they can tangle if not cared for, and drying them after a bath takes serious patience. Still, owners of Komondors swear it's worth it for the love, companionship, and constant compliments from strangers. One of the best parts? These dogs have gone viral more than once — it's impossible not to smile when you see a Komondor bounding across a field, its dreadlocks bouncing in the wind like it's starring in its own music video. So if you've ever wanted a pet that looks like a rockstar and acts like a gentle guardian, this might just be the perfect pup for you.
Telegraph
04-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Telegraph
Dreadlocked dogs surge in popularity at Crufts this year
'Dreadlock'-coated dogs have soared in popularity at Crufts this year. The Hungarian Puli and Komondor are among the top ten 'rising entries' for one of the world's largest dog shows, figures reveal. Striking for their mop-haired appearances, both breeds originate from Hungary and were bred to herd sheep. The popularity of the Hungarian Puli has risen by 72 per cent since last year while Komondor numbers are up 40 per cent. The statistics come ahead of the first day of Crufts 2025 – which is set to take place from Thursday to Sunday. A total of 50 Hungarian Pulis are expected to compete in the event at the NEC in Birmingham this year – compared to 29 last year, 41 in 2023 and 39 in 2022. Meanwhile, seven Komondor dogs will be taking part, up from five last year and just one in 2023 and 2022. With thick, corded, white coats that can grow from around 20 to 27cm long, the Komondor has the heaviest amount of fur in the canine world. Yet while their mature outer layer resembles dreadlocks or a mop, the breed's puppy coat is soft and fluffy. The coat protected the breed from wolf bites as the predator's teeth could not penetrate it. However, today they can pose more practical problems for owners – as the coat can take around two and a half days to dry after a bath. While the Komondor stands at around 70cm on average, the Hungarian Puli is smaller – at around 40cm on average across the two sexes. And while the Komondor has white fur, Pulis are often black. Fans of the breed include Mark Zuckerberg, who welcomed a Puli puppy – Beast, into his family in 2015. Meanwhile the Bavarian Mountain Hound has seen the highest entry rises compared to the previous year – from 11 dogs in 2024 to 27 entering this year, a 145 per cent increase, and the Austrian Silky terrier will see its entrants double – from 10 in 2024 to 20 this year. 'Celebrates hundreds of different dogs' Referring to the Hungarian Puli and Komondor, Bill Lambert, spokesperson for The Kennel Club which organises Crufts, said: 'These 'top risers' are a real reflection of diversity, with many of the breeds originating from around the globe and generally being less well-known.' Mr Lambert added: 'We're looking forward to finding out which dog will have its day at this year's event and be crowned 'Best in Show' – and we hope that Crufts 2025 raises awareness of, and celebrates, hundreds of different dogs, of all shapes, size and character.'
