Ben Bowser reports on the Gigapan camera, a robotic platform that creates high-resolution panoramas using digital imaging. This beta-level technology has become exceptionally popular. The Gigapan is sponsored by Google, CMU and the NASA Ames Intelligent Robotics Group.

When One Laptop Per Child introduced a cost-effective laptop, they created a new market for educational PCs in developing countries. They have constructed a powerful idea for learning, which, in conjunction with the laptop, can improve the lives of millions with educational opportunities. Walter Bender, President of Software/Content and COO of OLPC elaborates on their original mission, the passion of Nicholas Negroponte and the OLPC staff, and the adjustments that they have made since the inception of their product.

Manager of Xerox Canada’s New Materials Design and Synthesis Lab Dr. Paul Smith talks about erasable paper— an emerging product that is self-erasing and reusable. The product was inspired by an anthropological study and has the potential to reduce paper waste and save energy. Xerox Canada worked in collaboration with the Xerox Palo Alto Research Center.

A widely published Reuters news service article entitled “Iran Leader Suggests U.S. Ties Possible in Future” indicated that Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei stated that restoring ties with the United States now would harm the Islamic state, but that he would not rule it out in the future (Reuters, January 3, 2008). Further high points […]