Robots started farming in California, Google launched a flurry of new products — including a smartphone we think may be the envy of everyone. There was also news from Microsoft, Apple and even Craig Newmark (whom you likely know from his famous list) looking for computer programmers who like a bit of ethics on the side.

Iron Ox

California robot farm gets life of its own

Life on the farm just got a boost from artificial intelligence. The California-based company Iron Ox launched an autonomous robot farm, claiming it can grow 30-times more produce than traditional farms in its 2,000-square-foot space. The indoor farm consists of grow modules, completely managed by robotic machines, including "Angus," a 1,000-pound robot that senses, lifts, and moves modules as needed.

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iStock

Craigslist's founder to host computer science ethics competition

Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist, is launching a new venture: The Responsible Computer Science Challenge. The program is seeking proposals from professors and graduate students on how to incorporate ethics into software engineering education. The winners of the competition can earn up to $3.5 million for their innovations. Proposals are being accepted until Dec. 13, and applications are available online.

iStock

Microsoft jumps into video game streaming

Microsoft's new video game streaming service will be Project xCloud and available on Xbox. Players can stream their Xbox One games to multiple devices, including tablets, phones, and computers. The various supported devices can connect via Bluetooth, and smartphone users will be able to buy attachments that let them play from the mobile device. The trial run of the new cloud-based system will begin in 2019.

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GearBrain

Google announces newest product line

At this year's "Made by Google" event, Google unveiled its latest products: the Pixel 3 smartphone, Pixel Slate tablet, and Home Hub. The Pixel 3 features a Group Selfie Cam to capture larger scenes and portraits; the Pixel Slate comes with three free months of YouTube TV and rear and front wide-angle cameras; and the Home Hub, powered by Google Assistant, serves as a dashboard for connected smart home devices.

apple gets control over iPhone techGearBrain

Apple gets control over iPhone technology

In a $600 million deal, Apple gained control of Dialog Semiconductor's technology. Previously, Apple had planned to use digital chips from a third party, but now it can use Dialog chips, which have been used in iPhones since the first one went into production.

Toyota create self-driving car serviceiStock

Toyota pairs up to create self-driving car service

Toyota has teamed up with SoftBank Group Corp to create a self-driving car service and platform to help people turn their vehicles into mobile shops, hospitals, and more. The project will start as a Japan-focused innovation and is expected to move into a global setting. I called MONET, and the new self-driving service isn't set for an immediate ride — don't expect the first one until closer to 2025.

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