Roving robots may keep the sun shining on solar panels
Originally designed for mining sites, some autonomous robots are being redeployed to solar farms to perform dirty work that is dangerous to humans.
research and development
Homemade chips: $20m boost for Aussie quantum leader
A company planning to create the world's first commercial quantum computer will get a multimillion-dollar boost to achieve it in Australia.
Aussies to build GPS alternative for self-driving cars
Cars, rockets and mining vehicles could drive themselves even when the global positioning system goes dark if a Sydney company succeeds in its mission.
High-power pit stop: quantum batteries could rev up EVs
The next generation of batteries could power up electric cars within minutes and Australian researchers have developed a world-first proof-of-concept.
Bold reforms urged to boost flagging Aussie innovation
Tax changes, more grants, and targeted training are among the recommendations of a sweeping review of Australia's research and development industry.
Rice could be key ingredient to cutting steel emissions
Steel producers could cut carbon emissions in half by substituting agricultural waste for coal in its production, a world-first trial has found.
Aussie researchers create a robot vacuum for oil spills
A prototype is no larger than a shoe but Australian engineers plan to supersize their oil-consuming robot to tackle sea pollution.
Driving change: inside the autonomous car revolution
More self-driving cars will navigate streets around the world this year but some are yet to be convinced the technology is roadworthy.
Flying taxis poised to swoop down for Brisbane Olympics
Once promised in science fiction, flying taxis are expected to become reality within months and Australia is among the candidates to host them.
Why the best way around traffic may be flying above it
Australia has been promised a future filled with flying taxis before but the innovative machines may finally be approaching take-off.
Earth’s doppelganger: scientists make $15m digital twin
From stress-testing crops to simulating disease outbreaks, researchers plan to create a virtual copy of Australia's agricultural landscape to test scenarios.
Not a real doctor: AI struggles to treat human patients
Tasked with identifying common medical conditions and recommending treatment, artificial intelligence can deliver deadly advice.
Australia’s quantum leap: $20m boost for homegrown firm
Quantum technology that promises to outsmart artificial intelligence could be made in Australia after an investment in a Sydney company.
Taking a swing: Aussie Open serves AI insights to fans
Tennis-talking robots, virtual reality matches and an innovation to let visually impaired fans follow the action are being tested at the Australian Open.
Stacking solar cells could deliver cheaper power
A material touted as a candidate for next-generation solar technology is showing more promise, with Australian scientists behind its success.
AI is boosting scientific careers but shrinking studies
Artificial intelligence could be good for scientists but bad for science as a whole, a study has found, as it narrows the scope of research.
Space weather a growing risk for air traffic
Space weather is increasingly impacting aircraft electronics, and that means the recent grounding of dozens of flights may not be a one-off, researchers warn.
Aussie start-up has a ‘solid’ plan to revive hydrogen
An Australian company plans to turn hydrogen into a solid material that is cheaper to produce and could rescue green industries.
Mining giant reveals deal to turn iron and steel green
One of Australia's largest mining companies will pause its plans to produce greener iron and invest $35 million in emerging local technology.
Your next serve of lentils could be the product of AI
Australian inventors are using artificial intelligence to help farmers grade their crops but the technology almost proved too efficient.
No rules, no use: Aussie firms may miss AI opportunity
More Australian businesses are investing in artificial intelligence technology but many are still waiting for clear rules about its use.
Next-generation solar technology inches closer to roofs
More efficient solar cells are getting closer to commercial launch thanks to a breakthrough involving a new design and more durable chemicals.
How AI will be used to help neighbours find lost dogs
Internet-connected doorbell cameras will be loaded with artificial intelligence software and used to identify lost pets, with the owners' permission.
Appliance reliance: consumers want repairability labels
Most Australians want to know how long they can expect expensive appliances to work and whether they can be repaired easily, a study shows.
Aussie researchers look to space to help on earth
Emergency services, agricultural projects and defence operations are expected to benefit from eyes in the sky provided by Australian space innovations.
Why AI-powered cameras are watching Australian forests
Artificial intelligence technology will be deployed in more Australian forests in an investment inspired by the devastating Black Summer bushfires.
Making Mars: Aussie research turns red dirt into metal
A breakthrough to help with establishing a human colony on Mars could be hidden in its iron-rich red surface, Australian researchers say.
Industry, climate firms to give green iron green light
Creating a green metals industry is taking longer than expected, experts say, but an Australian summit is seeking ways to accelerate its creation.
Bright idea for businesses to power household bill cuts
Solar panels installed on commercial and industrial buildings could deliver savings to nearby residents in a trial proposed by a major energy firm.
Australia shouldn’t try to reinvent the AI wheel
Australian companies should boost productivity by using existing artificial intelligence tools rather than trying to create sovereign models, a US expert says.
AI-powered, heat-seeking satellites target Aussie fires
Bushfires in the Northern Territory are among the first captured by an artificially intelligent satellite designed to detect and record danger from above.