Latest news with #remoteareas
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Engineers unveil radical new freight system that could make diesel trucks obsolete: 'Almost like a mini-airline'
A team of engineers from the University of New South Wales is developing a fleet of drones that can deliver vital supplies to remote areas of Australia. The all-electric fleet would produce zero emissions and be a game-changer for both the population of these remote areas and the environment at large. Countries like Australia have vast swaths of remote land. The population of these remote areas depends on diesel trucks for the delivery of vital materials such as food and medicine. But the emissions from those long deliveries can be detrimental to both the environment and the humans they are serving. Diesel trucks are one of the largest sources of emissions around the globe, contributing to human respiratory illnesses such as asthma and lung disease. They are also detrimental to the environment, as they can degrade crops and soil as well as produce acid rain. To top it all off, they contribute mightily to warming temperatures around the globe. The project is a collaboration between a company called Seaflight Technologies and Macquarie University. Together, they are developing the AURA-E, an electric drone designed for long-range, heavy cargo transport. The ultimate goal of the program is to create a drone that can carry 440-660 pounds over hundreds of kilometers. The leaders of the program believe its benefits will go beyond efficiency and being better for the environment. It should also be a significant source of job growth in the region. This is because the operation of a fleet of drones will require a new generation of aviation professionals and entrepreneurs. With that in mind, the government of Australia awarded the development team half of the program's $3 million budget. This is only the latest use of drone technology to benefit the environment. It has also been used to locate abandoned oil and gas wells. And they are increasingly being deployed to fight deadly and destructive wildfires before they can spread out of control. The heads of the program have big ideas about its potential scope. "If you imagine drones as being almost like a mini-airline, you could have hundreds or even thousands of flights per day," said Graham Doig, the founder of Seaflight Technologies. He was also understandably enthusiastic about the idea of replacing the dirty diesel trucks. "You can start talking about resupplying a community with medical supplies or fresh fruit and vegetables that otherwise would have come from the other side of the country in a diesel-spewing truck. We're taking that off the road, and we're replacing it with near-zero emissions technology that can provide people with goods they need the next day." Which of the following sustainable changes would make you most likely to choose a particular airline? Using cleaner fuel Reducing in-flight waste Making it easy to choose low-emissions itineraries I don't pay attention to sustainability when I fly Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the latest innovations improving our lives and shaping our future, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Times of Oman
4 days ago
- Business
- Times of Oman
Elon Musk's Starlink gets license to offer satellite internet services in IndiaElon Musk's Starlink gets license to offer satellite Internet services in India
New Delhi: Elon Musk-owned satellite internet company Starlink has been given license by the government to launch GMPCS (Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite) services, VSAT Services and ISP Category-A under unified license. Starlink is the third company to receive the nod for GMPCS sevices from the Department of Telecom, after OneWeb and Reliance Jio. Global Mobile Personal Communication by Satellite (GMPCS) license authorizes the use of satellite technology for global mobile communication, providing connectivity seamlessly in the entire area of operation, particularly in remote and underserved areas. According to the Department of Telecommunications, GMPCS enables mobile communication services via satellite for users, especially in those regions where terrestrial networks' connectivity is limited. License holders deploy satellite terminals and ensure secure, continuous service with compliance with global standards. According to DoT, the license mandates adherence to privacy, lawful interception, and satellite transmission standards. Union Minister for Communications Jyotiraditya Scindia told reporters on Thursday that once licenses are given, the spectrum will be allocated to them. Scindia said that internet penetration can only be increased through satellite communication services, especially in remote areas where laying wires and installing towers would be difficult. Recently, Airtel and Jio have also partnered with Starlink to bring the latter's high-speed satellite internet services to their customers in India. Starlink will use Airtel and Jio's strong dealership network to sell and promote its services. In mid-April, Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal met a delegation from Starlink.
Hospitality Net
6 days ago
- Business
- Hospitality Net
EHL Innovation Rewind: Diane Binder on Redefining Sustainability, Regeneration, and the True Meaning of Luxury
During the EHL Open Innovation Summit, we sat down with Diane Binder to talk about the role of virtual reality, regeneration, and what real luxury means today. As Founder and CEO of Regenopolis and Co-founder of 700'000 heures Impact, Diane brings a unique lens that bridges sustainable development, hospitality, and systemic change. In our conversation, she shared why we need to move beyond metrics, how hospitality can become part of local ecosystems, and why the next era of travel will be defined by meaning, not just experience. Which technology or innovation do you believe will most reshape the industry over the next 5 to 10 years? Most people would probably say artificial intelligence, and rightly so, because it is impacting many industries. But I have a slightly different answer. I believe virtual reality will play a major role. Think about it. Why stand in line for hours to visit the pyramids in Egypt, surrounded by crowds, when you could sit on your sofa and experience the full journey through virtual reality? But if you want real, authentic connections with people, you will still travel. This shift will push tourism toward more meaningful experiences. It will become about connecting with yourself, with nature, and with others. Virtual reality could also help protect destinations that have suffered from overtourism. Currently, international tourists travel on less than five percent of the planet. Virtual reality has the potential to spread interest toward remote areas that are rich in culture, nature, and beauty beyond the typical must-see lists. How would you define real sustainability? That is a very relevant question, especially for hospitality, but it also applies across sectors. We often treat sustainability as a checkbox, something to help with pricing or certifications. The issue is that people struggle to relate to it. Sustainability was built on metrics and KPIs, which helped us create standards and shared goals, like the Sustainable Development Goals. But today, this is no longer enough. All our systems are unraveling at the same time. Climate, biodiversity, human and economic systems are in crisis. What we need now is not just sustainability, but regeneration. Regeneration is about shifting mindsets. We cannot create new outcomes with the same thinking. It requires a new way of relating to nature and to others. It means recognizing that human beings are part of living systems. Hospitality professionals are visitors to a place. Their responsibility goes beyond sustainable behaviors. It is about understanding the essence of a place, unlocking opportunities for local people, and being of service to a broader purpose. Do you think there is a semantic issue with the word sustainability, and that what we really need is to change the status quo? Yes. Sustainability often implies preserving the current state of things. But we cannot afford to preserve the status quo anymore. Regeneration is about changing the status quo, and doing it from a different place. From a mindset rooted in self-actualization. The same values and belief systems will always lead to the same results. What we need is a mindset shift. Let me give you a concrete example from hospitality. A hotel might hire staff from the local community, source food locally, and buy products from nearby suppliers. That is good. But what if the hotel saw itself as one actor among many in the local ecosystem? Alongside local governments, NGOs, community leaders, and others. Together, this network could bring about meaningful change. It is not about using or even giving back to the environment. It is about belonging to it. That is when you start creating something that is deeply respectful and transformative for everyone involved, including the traveler. Do you think we need to redefine what luxury is? Absolutely. Luxury, for me, is about access. It is about reaching places that are off the beaten path. It is about the authenticity of the relationships you build and the way you connect with a place. Real luxury is about how a journey transforms you. It starts before you travel, and it stays with you after you return. It might even influence your future behavior. Luxury is the opportunity to reconnect with yourself. It is not about abundance. It is not about being demanding or saying, I paid for this so I deserve that. It is about becoming a better person. For yourself, and for the planet you live on. About the EHL Open Innovation Summit 2025 This interview was recorded during the EHL Open Innovation Summit in Lausanne, where Hospitality Net joined as official media partner. The event brought together a global mix of thinkers and doers to explore the future of hospitality, food, and travel through open innovation. What made it special was the mix of ideas, formats, and people. It was not only about tech or talks. It was also about people showing up, working together, and sharing energy in real time. Key Figures 385 participants 48 speakers and contributors from more than 20 countries 7 innovation challenges collectively addressed 45 sessions 25 student volunteers 15 F&B startups letting us taste the future 1.5 days of connection, learning, and co-creation Key Insights from the Summit
Geeky Gadgets
13-05-2025
- Geeky Gadgets
iOS 18.5 RELEASED - FIRST 10 Things To Do
Apple has officially launched iOS 18.5, bringing a host of features, enhancements, and fixes aimed at improving your iPhone experience. Whether you're seeking better performance, new tools, or refined usability, this update offers something for everyone. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most significant changes and how you can take full advantage of them in the latest video from iDeviceHelp. Watch this video on YouTube. Satellite Connectivity for iPhone 13 Users iPhone 13 users can now access satellite connectivity through select carriers, a feature introduced with iOS 18.5. This functionality ensures you stay connected even in remote areas where cellular networks are unavailable. Whether you need to send messages or access emergency services, this feature provides a critical lifeline when you're off the grid. To activate it, check with your carrier for availability and follow their setup instructions. This addition is particularly valuable for outdoor enthusiasts, travelers, or anyone who frequently ventures into areas with limited network coverage. Enhanced Accessibility Options iOS 18.5 continues Apple's commitment to inclusivity by introducing updates that improve accessibility for all users. The Backtap feature now includes an option to disable background banners, offering greater control over notifications. This is especially useful if you rely on Backtap for shortcuts or accessibility actions, as it minimizes distractions. You can customize these settings in the Accessibility menu to better align with your preferences. These enhancements demonstrate Apple's ongoing efforts to make technology more adaptable and user-friendly for individuals with diverse needs. Upgraded Mail App Features The Mail app receives subtle yet impactful updates in iOS 18.5, enhancing both functionality and aesthetics. A new 'Show Contact Photos' option allows you to personalize your inbox by displaying contact photos alongside emails. While this feature is disabled by default, allowing it adds a layer of customization that makes your inbox feel more personal and visually engaging. Additionally, smoother animations for navigating inbox categories improve the app's responsiveness, creating a more polished and seamless user experience. These updates make managing your emails more intuitive and enjoyable. Dynamic Wallpapers and Pride Harmony Designs For users who enjoy personalizing their devices, iOS 18.5 introduces the 'Pride Harmony' wallpaper, a dynamic design featuring vibrant animations that celebrate diversity and inclusion. This wallpaper not only enhances your device's appearance but also reflects Apple's commitment to representation and equality. If you own an Apple Watch, you can pair this wallpaper with the matching Pride Harmony watch face for a cohesive and stylish look. These additions allow you to express your individuality while supporting a meaningful cause. Redesigned Apple Care Interface The Apple Care and Warranty section has been redesigned to provide a more streamlined and user-friendly experience. The updated layout simplifies navigation, making it easier to access warranty details and support options. Whether you're checking your device's coverage or exploring repair services, this redesign ensures quicker access to critical information. This improvement highlights Apple's focus on enhancing usability and reducing friction in accessing essential support tools. Bug Fixes and Performance Enhancements iOS 18.5 addresses several bugs and introduces performance enhancements to ensure your device runs more efficiently. Notable fixes include resolving CarPlay connectivity issues, though you may need to re-pair your vehicle to apply the changes. Additionally, the update improves general performance and battery life, providing a smoother and more reliable user experience. These improvements underscore Apple's dedication to maintaining the quality and stability of its operating system. Carrier Settings Update This update includes new carrier bundles designed to improve network performance and compatibility. While some devices update these settings automatically, others may require manual confirmation. To ensure you're benefiting from the latest optimizations, navigate to your device's settings and check for carrier updates. Staying up to date with these settings is essential for maintaining optimal connectivity and performance. Third-Party App Compatibility After installing iOS 18.5, it's recommended to manually update your third-party apps to ensure compatibility with the new operating system. App developers often release updates to align with the latest iOS version, allowing you to take advantage of app-specific improvements. Regularly updating your apps not only enhances performance but also ensures better security, making this step an important part of maintaining your device. Why Upgrade to iOS 18.5? iOS 18.5 focuses on improving usability, personalization, and performance, making it a well-rounded update for a wide range of users. From satellite connectivity for iPhone 13 users to dynamic wallpapers and accessibility enhancements, this version offers meaningful upgrades that enhance your device's functionality and customization options. Additionally, bug fixes, improved carrier settings, and redesigned interfaces contribute to a smoother and more efficient user experience. Whether you're looking for practical improvements or ways to personalize your device, iOS 18.5 delivers on multiple fronts. How to Get Started To install iOS 18.5, go to Settings > General > Software Update on your iPhone. Ensure your device is connected to Wi-Fi and has sufficient battery life before proceeding. Once the update is installed, take some time to explore the new features and customize your settings to optimize your experience. This proactive approach ensures you get the most out of the latest iOS version. Find more information on iOS 18.5 Update by browsing our extensive range of articles, guides and tutorials. Source & Image Credit: iDeviceHelp Filed Under: Apple, Apple iPhone, Top News Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
