Technology

Tech that's turning big rigs, trucks, even tanks into self-driving vehicles

Published

3 weeks ago

July 11, 2024

Tech that's turning big rigs, trucks, even tanks into self-driving vehicles

Have you ever found yourself cruising down the highway, glancing at the big rigs beside you, and wondering, “What if these trucks could drive themselves?” Well, buckle up and get ready because that future is closer than you think, thanks to companies like Kodiak Robotics.

I know what you’re thinking: “Self-driving trucks? Is this for real?” It’s a fair question and one that many people are asking. Kodiak Robotics is at the forefront of this revolution, developing cutting-edge autonomous technology that’s set to transform the trucking industry. But the big question is: Are we as a society ready for this leap?

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Driverless big rig (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Addressing safety concerns

Let’s face it, the idea of 80,000-pound trucks barreling down the highway without a human at the wheel can be a bit unnerving. It’s natural to have concerns about safety. But here’s the thing: According to the company, Kodiak’s autonomous system, the Kodiak Driver, is designed with safety as its absolute top priority.

The tech that's turning big rigs, trucks, even tanks into self-driving vehicles

Driverless big rig (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

This isn’t just some fancy cruise control. We’re talking about a sophisticated AI that uses cameras, lidar and radar to create a 360-degree view of its surroundings. It’s like giving a truck superhuman senses: always alert, never distracted and constantly calculating the safest path forward.

Kodiak Driver using AI to create 360-degree view of its surroundings (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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SensorPods: The eyes and ears of the operation

One of the more interesting features of the Kodiak system is its SensorPods. These modular units are easy to install and maintain, making them perfect for quick swaps if needed. It’s like changing a tire but for high-tech sensors. The patent-pending SensorPods are packed with a variety of sensors, which work together to provide real-time data and analytics, ensuring the autonomous driving system is always informed and responsive.

Illustration of SensorPods on a big rig truck (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

AUTONOMOUS BIG RIGS FROM VOLVO AND AURORA ARE COMING TO HIGHWAYS

Unique autonomous technology: Always on watch

Kodiak’s Guardian technology is constantly calculating and recalculating routes, always ready with a backup plan. Think of it as having a super-cautious co-pilot who never gets tired or distracted.

Illustration of Guardian technology being used on a big rig truck (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Adaptive maps: Smarter than your average map

Kodiak uses a flexible mapping system that can be updated on the fly. It’s smart enough to adapt to real-world changes, making it perfect for both on-road and off-road environments.

Illustration of Kodiak maps being used by a big rig (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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How this autonomous driving technology will change commercial trucking

Now, let’s discuss how this tech is changing the game for big rig trucks. Kodiak’s autonomous technology is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing class-8 platforms, making it a perfect fit for long-haul routes. The Kodiak Driver never speeds, gets distracted or becomes drowsy, which means safer roads and more efficient operations.

Kodiak trucks can operate nearly 24/7, only stopping for refueling, maintenance and loading. This increased efficiency leads to better asset utilization, more reliable deliveries and even reduced fuel consumption. In fact, self-driving technology can help cut fuel consumption and emissions by up to 25%.

SensorPods on the side of a big rig (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Military muscle: Kodiak’s role in national security

Kodiak’s technology isn’t just for commercial use; it’s also making waves in the military sector. Their autonomous ground vehicles (AGVs) are set to become a crucial part of future security operations. The military-grade SensorPods are adaptable to any vehicle and built to be reliable and maintainable on any ground mission.

This means fast replacements and less downtime, which could be crucial in high-stakes situations. Kodiak’s AGVs offer enhanced survivability, endurance and the ability to operate in hazardous environments, protecting U.S. military personnel from harm.

Illustration of a tank with SensorPods installed (Kodiak Robotics) (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

The promise of safer roads through autonomous technology

When we asked about the motivation behind developing autonomous trucks, Michael Wiesinger, VP of commercialization and GM of Transportation Sector, Kodiak, emphasized the potential for improved safety and efficiency: “We are developing autonomous trucks because we believe that they can help make roadways safer and transportation more efficient for all. We are building our system to be the safest driver on the road. Kodiak’s autonomous trucking technology simultaneously monitors every area around the vehicle, it doesn’t get drowsy or distracted, and reacts faster than a human driver can.”

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Kodiak Robotics is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in autonomous trucking and military operations. They’re not just creating self-driving vehicles; they’re reimagining entire industries. With its focus on safety, efficiency and adaptability, Kodiak is paving the way for a future where autonomous vehicles are common on our highways and defense operations. So, next time you’re on the road and see a truck smoothly cruising along or hear about a successful military operation, who knows? It might just be powered by Kodiak’s autonomous technology.

What do you think? Are you excited about the prospect of this self-driving technology? Or does the idea still make you a bit nervous? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

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Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson is an award-winning tech journalist who has a deep love of technology, gear and gadgets that make life better with his contributions for Fox News & FOX Business beginning mornings on “FOX & Friends.” Got a tech question? Get Kurt’s free CyberGuy Newsletter, share your voice, a story idea or comment at CyberGuy.com.

Technology

Saudi Arabia proposes World Cup stadium straight out of a cyberpunk dystopia

Published

7 hours ago

August 1, 2024

Press Room

Saudi Arabia proposes World Cup stadium straight out of a cyberpunk dystopia

You’ll instantly notice the polygonal shapes making up the roof of the stadium, with the fractured pieces creating a mirror above those seated within the beehive-like setup. The Neom Stadium will be able to hold 46,000 people and “run entirely on renewable energy, generated primarily from wind and solar sources.” Construction is expected to be completed in 2032.

How can you focus on the game with reflections on the ceiling?

Image: Saudi 2034

It looks like the stadium’s aesthetic will fit right in with The Line, the 106-mile-long linear city surrounded by reflective walls with a vertical housing system, a high-speed rail, and “100% renewable energy.” Saudi Arabia has been criticized for reportedly using lethal force to clear villages in the path of The Line, as well as concern over the amount of resources that it will need for construction.

I don’t really know what’s going on here.

Image: Saudi 2034

Aside from the Neom stadium, Saudi Arabia is planning to build the three-tiered Prince Mohammed bin Salman stadium (pictured above) on the side of a cliff surrounded by colored glass and LED screens. Of course, these are still just renders for now, and the real things could end up looking entirely different.

Technology

4 ways to find your lost iPhone

Published

7 hours ago

August 1, 2024

Press Room

Our iPhones have become an extension of ourselves, holding our memories, connections and sensitive information.

The sinking feeling of realizing you’ve misplaced your iPhone can be overwhelming, not just because of its hefty price tag but also because of the potential security risks if it falls into the wrong hands.

Fortunately, there are multiple ways to track down your device. We’ll guide you through several effective methods to locate your missing iPhone, ensuring peace of mind and the safe recovery of your valuable device.

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A person trying to locate an iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Four ways to find a lost iPhone

While you can use most Apple devices to help locate your iPhone, below includes one way to use an Apple device and three ways without an Apple device to find your iPhone.

1. Use iCloud to locate your iPhone

You can log into your iCloud account to use Find My on your web browser to locate your iPhone. Please note you would’ve already had to turn on location services and add your iPhone to Find My in order to use this feature. Below are steps on how to use iCloud to locate your iPhone:

Type iCloud.com in the search bar of your web browser

Steps to use iCloud to locate your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Input the email address used to start your iCloud account. This is usually the same email you use for your Apple ID.

=Steps to use iCloud to locate your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

Input your password (unless you use a passkey)
There may be a two-step authentication process to verify your identity. You’ll be asked to allow or disallow verification on a secondary device. If so, select Allow. Then, enter the passcode provided on this secondary device.
Once logged into your iCloud account, scroll down to the App icons at the bottom left of the screen.
Select the Find My icon.

Steps to use iCloud to locate your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

All your Apple devices should be listed on a menu on the left side of the screen.
Locate your iPhone and click the device icon

Steps to use iCloud to locate your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

It should show you a map of approximately where your iPhone is located.
You can click Play sound if you are close enough to listen for sounds coming from your iPhone, or you can see where it is on the map.

Steps to use iCloud to locate your iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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2. Use Siri to locate your iPhone

If Siri has been enabled on your iPhone and you believe the iPhone is somewhere near you, you can call out ‘Hey Siri’ loudly. It will light up and respond verbally, which will help you locate it.

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Siri on iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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3. Use Apple Watch to locate your iPhone

Even though it would be using another Apple device, using the Apple Watch is a convenient way to locate your iPhone. This is called the ping feature. To find your iPhone using an Apple Watch running watchOS 10 or later:

Press the Digital Crown to return to the watch face.
Press the side button (the oval button below the Digital Crown) once to open the Control Center.
Tap the Find iPhone button in the Control Center. It’s represented by a rectangle with curved lines around it.
Your iPhone will emit a pinging sound to help you locate it.

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A man using his Apple Watch to locate his iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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4. Use Google Maps Timeline to locate your iPhone

You can use Google Maps Timeline to view the last known locations of your iPhone if Location Services and Location History are enabled on the device. This can help you identify where your iPhone was last seen. To access this:

Open a web browser and go to Google Maps Timeline.
Log into the same Google account used on your iPhone.
Check the location history to see where your iPhone was last located.

A person using Google Maps Timeline to find their iPhone (Kurt “CyberGuy” Knutsson)

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Kurt’s key takeaways

Nothing is more irritating and worrisome than misplacing your iPhone. It is worse if you lose it outside of your home or have it stolen. Even if you don’t own other Apple devices, you can use some of the different methods to locate your iPhone. While it is tempting to recover your iPhone from whoever has taken it, if your iPhone is in the hands of an unknown person, resist the urge to confront them directly and contact local law enforcement instead.

Have you ever lost or had your iPhone stolen? How did you find out where you last had it in your possession? Let us know by writing us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report Newsletter by heading to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.

Ask Kurt a question or let us know what stories you’d like us to cover.

Follow Kurt on his social channels:

Answers to the most asked CyberGuy questions:

Technology

Meta’s future is AI, AI, and more AI

Published

14 hours ago

August 1, 2024

Press Room

The good news for Meta is that, unlike pretty much every AI startup, it already makes a lot of money. Last quarter, the company made just over $39 billion in revenue, up 22 percent from a year ago, and about $13.5 billion in profit, up 73 percent. 3.27 billion people use at least one of Meta’s apps every day. That kind of scale and money buys the ability to make big bets, which Zuckerberg is famous for doing.

On Meta’s Wednesday earnings call, CFO Susan Li reiterated to investors that financial returns from its recent AI investments will “come in over a longer period of time.” Zuckerberg was direct about why Meta is spending billions on Nvidia hardware and the other infrastructure ahead of these future returns: “It’s hard to predict how this will trend multiple generations into the future, but at this point, I’d rather risk building capacity before it is needed rather than too late.”

He again telegraphed that the Meta AI assistant is on track to be the most used in the world before the end of the year. While he touted that generative AI features “are things that I think will increase engagement in our products,” he said the real revenue will come from business use cases, like AI creating ads from scratch and letting businesses operate their own AI agents in WhatsApp for customer service.

Some other tidbits from the earnings call: