NSC

Scientists have set out the conditions that would need to be met for artificial intelligence systems to become conscious, a question that has moved from philosophy into mainstream research as AI capabilities grow. The work is drawing wide attention, with commenters debating whether consciousness can even be defined or tested in machines, and warning about the implications of getting the answer wrong.

A new column by Julia Kloiber argues that people continually invent creative ways to connect and organise political protest, highlighting the field of resilient technology. She is enthusiastic about these tools but also points to the challenges they face. Her latest example is the use of the messaging app Bitchat by protesters in India.

Better Home & Finance has published the transcript of its Q2 2026 earnings conference call, giving investors access to management's discussion of quarterly performance, outlook and analyst questions. The release follows the company's latest earnings report and is being circulated among investors tracking the digital mortgage lender's turnaround efforts and financial results.