This week’s list of top data news highlights covers October 18, 2025 to October 24, 2025 and includes articles on using AI to explore the Antarctic seafloor and restoring vision with wireless implants.
Researchers at Tsinghua University in China have developed Yuheng, a fingernail-sized optical chip that analyzes starlight 100 times more precisely than conventional instruments. Instead of using large lenses to split light, the chip captures telescope data as patterns inside a crystal and reconstructs the full color spectrum using computer algorithms. It can map up to 5,600 stars in one snapshot, making the process up to 10,000 times faster than standard astronomical tools.
2. Restoring Vision with Implants
Science Corporation, a medical technology company based in California, has developed a wireless retinal implant that partially restores sight for patients with advanced macular degeneration. The pinhead-sized chip replaces dead retinal cells and connects to a small camera mounted on glasses, which converts visual scenes into infrared signals and projects them onto the implant. These signals are turned into electrical impulses that stimulate remaining neurons, allowing users to perceive black-and-white images. In clinical tests over 30 patients regained enough vision to read letters on an eye chart, marking the first successful use of a prosthetic retina for this condition.
Verdant Robotics, a California-based agricultural technology company, has developed Sharpshooter, a machine-learning system that precisely applies fertilizers, herbicides, and other crop treatments. Mounted on tractors or autonomous vehicles, the system uses cameras and computer vision to identify plants, weeds, and soil features, delivering targeted sprays. It generates real-time maps that track every application and monitor crop health and pest pressure.
Amazon is testing augmented reality glasses that project delivery details directly into drivers’ fields of view. Using AI and computer vision, the glasses can highlight the correct packages in the van, guide drivers to the door with digital arrows, and prompt them to take a photo for proof of delivery. A small controller worn on the vest manages power, privacy, and emergency functions. The system aims to make deliveries faster and safer.
5. Preparing Patients for Surgery
Hospital for Special Surgery, an academic medical center based in New York, has developed and tested a custom AI chat platform to help patients prepare for joint replacement surgeries. The system is trained on surgeon-approved educational content covering topics like activity restrictions, medication use, and recovery steps. Patients access the chat through a web link and ask real-time questions before and after surgery. The platform reduces repetitive questions for staff while providing 24/7 access to reliable, doctor-specific guidance.
Ring, the U.S.-based home security company, is launching Search Party, an AI-powered feature that helps locate missing pets using footage from neighborhood Ring cameras. When a user reports a lost dog through the app, nearby outdoor cameras automatically scan video feeds for possible matches. If a pet resembling the missing one appears, owners receive an alert with images and video clips. Participation is enabled by default, though users can opt out or control which cameras take part.
Axon, a U.S.-based public safety technology company, is providing VR training headsets to help police officers make faster and safer decisions in high-pressure situations. The system immerses recruits in real-world scenarios ranging from mental health crises to domestic violence calls and is being used by more than 1,500 departments across the United States and Canada The AI-driven simulations adjust how virtual suspects behave, responding differently based on an officer’s actions.
8. Exploring the Antarctic Seafloor
Researchers at the British Antarctic Survey in the UK have developed an AI system that analyzes underwater imagery collected by seafloor cameras and remotely operated vehicles. Trained on thousands of labeled images from previous research, the model identifies and maps species such as starfish, corals, and sponges within seconds. By accelerating biodiversity assessments across Antarctic habitats, the tool helps scientists monitor fragile marine ecosystems and guide conservation decisions in real-time.
Whisker, a pet technology based in Michigan, has released self-cleaning litter boxes that use AI to monitor cat health. The box includes dual cameras and facial recognition to identify individual cats and track bathroom patterns, sending real-time updates to a companion app. By analyzing frequency, waste type, and irregularities, the system alerts owners to possible health issues while improving odor control and reducing maintenance.
Turbo AI, a California based tech startup, has developed an AI-powered note-taking and study tool. The platform records lectures or processes uploaded materials like PDFs and videos to generate structured notes, flashcards, and quizzes. The platform then summarizes key ideas and explains terms interactively, allowing users to learn through testing rather than passive reading.
