This week brought some major updates in the tech world, from self-driving taxis hitting the streets of Las Vegas to a wild new gaming controller you can customize.
First, Nevada officials just gave permission to Tesla, Waymo, and Uber to run paid robotaxi services. Robotaxi is a term for a car that drives itself without a human behind the wheel. Tesla can put up to 5,000 driverless cars on the road over the next 12 months, though they hope to have at least 2,500 running by 2027. Waymo and Uber can each launch 1,000 of their own driverless cabs, with Uber partnering with other tech firms like Zoox and Motional. This means visitors to Las Vegas will soon be able to hail a completely driverless ride and pay for it just like a normal taxi.
Meanwhile, gamers are getting a futuristic new gadget called the Genki Manta. This is a highly adjustable video game controller with a built-in 2.9-inch display screen. It is currently on a funding website called Kickstarter for $189, and it will eventually sell in stores for $279. It uses a tiny built-in computer chip to let players change how the buttons feel and react. You can adjust the triggers on the back of the controller to 3 different depths. It also features a 2,600mAh rechargeable battery—which is the spec that measures how much power it holds—that you can easily swap out yourself.
Why does all of this matter to you? These updates show how quickly technology is changing our everyday lives. Whether you are traveling or playing games at home, tech companies are finding new ways to give you more control. Driverless cars are moving from science fiction to a standard transportation option in major cities. At the same time, gaming gear is becoming incredibly personalized so it fits your exact hand movements and playing style.
It is going to be very exciting to watch these new gadgets and services roll out over the coming months.
