Microsoft Launches Closed Beta of Augmented Reality Minecraft Earth

Now in closed beta through London and Seattle, and set to roll out further this summer, Microsoft’s AR update to Minecraft—dubbed Minecraft Earth—will hope to reach all 91 million of the classic game’s users around the globe in due time. The game enables users to build digital cities on top of the real world, either alone or in collaboration with other players. Fast Company had …

Airbus Unveils “Bird of Prey” Hybrid Plane Concept

One component of Airbus’ goal of cutting aerospace emissions in half by 2050, the “Bird of Prey” concept debuted at the Royal International Air Tattoo airshow. This hybrid-electric engine passenger plane aims to mimic birds in various ways. Not only does it have a long tail and sprawling wings, it will arch like an eagle, have individual “feathers” that can be controlled on their own …

Innovative Design Shines in the Tour de France

Currently in stage 16, this year’s Tour de France is a brilliant display of endurance, skill and innovative design. Aero and climbing bikes are crucial for standard and uphill stages, whereas time trial bikes are used to shave off seconds and on downhill legs. For a race that is often decided by no more than 1/100 of a second during each stage, and less than …