news analyses

For decades, AI was held back by slow, expensive computers. Today, the problem is simpler, but harder to fix: finding enough reliable electricity to keep data centers running as AI spreads into everyday life.

Voices contain countless cues about their owners, and new research suggests that computers might use them to facilitate a range of bad behaviors.

A new vaccine design uses folded DNA to steer the immune system toward producing the rare immune cells needed to make protective antibodies against HIV.

Emerging evidence suggests that "night owls" are more likely to have poor heart health and a higher risk of heart attack or stroke than "morning larks." Why is that?

Dams in the U.S. are showing signs of damage that are worsening with age and climate change. Could satellites help prioritize repairs amid budget and inspection constraints?

A new study comparing 59 species of primates linked same-sex sexual behavior to scarce resources and more predators in socially complex species. The findings show diverse sexual behaviors are common — and likely beneficial in primates.

When large language models (LLMs) are allowed to interact without any preset goals, scientists found distinct personalities emerged by themselves.

Mice that experience the real world may be better models for human mental health conditions, compared with lab mice that never leave their cages, a study hints.

There are several methods for detecting whether a piece of text was written by AI. They all have limitations – and probably always will.

A new study argues that AI can never be more creative than humans, but many experts argue that AI's output will only ever be as good as its input — with the goalposts shifting as AI improves in the years to come.