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Computer vision in the dark using recurrent CNNs

Over the past few years, classical convolutional neural networks (cCNNs) have led to remarkable advances in computer vision. Many of these algorithms can now categorize objects in good quality images with high accuracy.

However, in real-world applications, such as autonomous driving or robotics, imaging data rarely includes pictures taken under ideal lighting conditions. Often, the images that CNNs would need to process feature occluded objects, motion distortion, or low signal to noise ratios (SNRs), either as a result of poor image quality or low light levels.

Although cCNNs have also been successfully used to de-noise images and enhance their quality, these networks cannot combine information from multiple frames or video sequences and are hence easily outperformed by humans on low quality images. Till S. Hartmann, a neuroscience researcher at Harvard Medical School, has recently carried out a study that addresses these limitations, introducing a new CNN approach for analyzing noisy images.

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Patent talk: Apple concept features earbuds that can be worn interchangeably

Are we about to see Apple reaching an even newer gold standard in ear buds? Apple has a patent for AirPods with built in biometrics. It’s being called “universal” because the idea calls for ear pods that can be worn in either ear. That would mean no more left-right business.

Much of the tech news coverage is focusing on the “interchangeable” aspect of the concept. 9to5Mac’s Alex Allegro said interchangeable earbuds “equipped with ‘at least one’ biometric sensor, which could detect left/right ear placement and accordingly adjust audio.” He assessed the potential advantages as “evolving AirPods from a separate left / right unit to a single component,” which could lower costs and simplify getting a replacement AirPod.

If the are interchangeable, then it is a big deal in terms of user satisfaction. OK, the product is popular now but The Verge reminds us that the AirPod is not a perfect fit for everyone. Nick Statt: “Due to the shape of some people’s inner ear, the headphones simply don’t fit every possible ear shape well.”

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Tesla’s Elon Musk welcomes competition

General Motors recently announced plans to double its investment in electric vehicles and that’s just fine with Elon Musk. 60 Minutes, Sunday. https://cbsn.ws/2L0D2pw&h=AT27OxLLrIvSTagOUUaqQ8rb_hlgmnx14C2dHTkbzrsKwy4l_ztP8pnSwpQFkZU4cQWXOJvxGcJKC4DG1-UmMRuTcJyjcksfLZ676yrmVAh6EafonJ6aa_UkgvB5KsO1cVr0cdcH-1ch66fUi75aE2E00_2LnwmPR4dRbwTRR5eN7gsvvYFzIR1X

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China mission launches to far side of Moon

China has launched the first mission to land a robotic craft on the far side of the Moon, Chinese media say.

The Chang’e-4 mission will see a static lander and rover touch down in Von Kármán crater, located on the side of the Moon which never faces Earth.

The payload blasted off atop a Long March 3B rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Center.

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5 Important Artificial Intelligence Predictions (For 2019) Everyone Should Read

Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and deep learning have made huge strides in 2018. In this post we look at some of the key AI predictions for 2019, where is will be used, how it will make the biggest impact, as well as the key challenges we have to address.

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