Technology

The Download: AI-designed viruses, and bad news for the hydrogen industry

Source

MIT Technology Review

Published

Sep 18, 2025

TL;DR

AI Generated

AI-designed viruses created using artificial intelligence are now capable of killing bacteria, potentially leading to new treatments and advancements in engineered cells. Meanwhile, the hydrogen industry is facing challenges with cancellations and delays in major projects, particularly in the US due to changes in tax credits and support for renewable energy. Despite these setbacks, there are opportunities for growth in markets like China. The article also highlights other tech news stories, including Meta's new smart glasses and issues with the CDC.

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Nanoscale device generates continuous electricity from evaporating water and some sunlight — paves the path for battery-free sensors, wearable electronics, and more

Researchers at EPFL in Switzerland have developed a nanoscale device that generates continuous electricity from evaporating water, aided by heat and sunlight. This technology, known as a hydrovoltaic device, can work with ordinary ion-containing water like tap water or seawater. The device consists of three layers that harness evaporation, heat, and sunlight to produce stable electrical output. While the power output is small compared to commercial solar panels, the device shows promise for battery-free sensors, wearable electronics, and IoT devices in environments with natural water, warmth, and sunlight. The design allows for independent optimization of each stage and potential scalability in the future.

Tom's Hardware•

2 days ago

Microsoft will allow users to indefinitely pause updates in Windows 11 — first change in over a decade to the mandatory update policy

Microsoft has announced a significant change in its update policy for Windows 11, allowing users to indefinitely pause updates. This marks the first time since Windows 10's launch in 2015 that users can pause updates indefinitely. The change aims to address user complaints about the mandatory update policy and lack of control over update timing. The new update options include delaying updates on new devices, scheduling updates, restoring normal shutdown and restart options, and providing clearer update information. Microsoft emphasizes that while users can now control updates more effectively, updates remain crucial for security and system stability.

Tom's Hardware•

6 days ago

U.S. Grid-Scale Battery Production to Support 100% of Renewable Generating Capacity

The U.S. grid-scale battery manufacturing industry can now fully support the storage needs of wind and solar electricity generation, with battery storage expected to make up 28% of new U.S. power-plant capacity. By the end of 2025, U.S. factories had the capacity to produce about 70 GWh of finished grid storage systems annually, with projections to reach 145 GWh/year by the end of 2026. Despite challenges like limited domestic supplies of battery materials, the industry is advancing rapidly with battery recycling technologies and North American mining operations. Grid-scale storage systems are significantly enhancing the economics of renewable energy by storing excess power and ensuring a steady supply.

ElectronicDesign•

2 weeks ago

Tested: Microsoft may finally end forced Windows 11 updates with a new pause feature that gives you full control

Microsoft is testing a new feature in Windows 11 that allows users to select a specific date to pause updates until then, potentially ending forced updates. This new feature replaces the existing dropdown menu for pausing updates for up to five weeks. Users may now have greater control over Windows Updates, with the ability to pause updates for as long as they want. The new pause controls are still under development, but users can now pick a date in the calendar to pause updates. This change marks a significant shift in Microsoft's approach to Windows updates.

Windows Latest•