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Sony AI develops robot capable of competing with elite table tennis players
via Punch Nigeria1 min read
Sony's artificial intelligence unit has developed an AI-powered robotic arm named "Ace" that can perceive, react to, and return shots from elite-level table tennis players. The research, published in the journal Nature, details how Ace, a bulky industrial robot, can make split-second decisions and execute agile movements. In initial tests, Ace won three out of five matches against elite players, with other matches being competitive. Sony AI noted that Ace continued to improve its performance, winning more recent matches against professionals with higher shot speeds and more aggressive shot placement. According to Sony AI, this development lays the groundwork for AI systems that can safely and reliably operate in dynamic physical environments, extending beyond previous table tennis robots that only reached amateur levels. Peter Stone, chief scientist at Sony AI, stated that AI operating at an expert human level in such conditions opens the door to a new class of real-world applications.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
The Nigeria Safety Investigation Bureau NSIB and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority NCAA have initiated discussions to enhance cooperation in supporting victims of aircraft accidents and their families. This move aims to align Nigeria's emergency response framework with international aviation standards. The discussions, held in Abuja, involved the National Family Assistance Committee, coordinated by the NSIB, and NCAA officials. Both agencies focused on improving institutional coordination, building capacity, and implementing Family Assistance programs within Nigeria's aviation sector. Funke Arowojobe, NSIB’s Director of Public Affairs and Family Assistance, stated that the engagement with the NCAA sought to strengthen collaboration on aviation disaster victim and family assistance. Discussions covered the objectives of the Family Assistance Programme, the International Civil Aviation Organisation ICAO policy on assistance to aircraft accident victims and their families, and the roles of both NSIB and NCAA. Michael Achimugu, NCAA's Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the need for continuous training and retraining of personnel. Both agencies identified practical areas for collaboration, including joint capacity-building programs, knowledge sharing, and stakeholder sensitization, to establish clearer institutional procedures for supporting families affected by aviation accidents.
The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control NAFDAC has started a nationwide operation to remove alcoholic beverages packaged in sachets and polyethylene terephthalate PET bottles under 200 milliliters. This action aligns with the Federal Government's ban on the production, importation, distribution, sale, and use of such alcoholic drinks. NAFDAC stated on X that enforcement is occurring across all six geopolitical zones, following the closure of non-compliant manufacturing facilities. The agency's enforcement teams are targeting markets, motor parks, retail outlets, bars, and other distribution channels to seize banned products. NAFDAC has warned all stakeholders, including manufacturers, importers, and retailers, to surrender any remaining stock of these products, emphasizing that continued possession or sale is illegal and will lead to seizure, sanctions, and prosecution. The public is urged to support this effort by avoiding banned alcoholic beverages and reporting offenders to NAFDAC.
Wolverhampton Wanderers canceled a training session after striker Tolu Arokodare reportedly refused to leave the pitch, demanding a transfer to Fiorentina. Wolves had rejected an offer from the Serie A club, despite having accepted one from Trabzonspor. The incident, reported by BBC Sports, led new head coach Cesar Peixoto to end Monday's training. Arokodare will not play in Wednesday's friendly against Maidenhead United. This follows a previous disciplinary issue in April involving Mateus Mane. Arokodare, who joined Wolves from Genk for £24 million last summer, scored three league goals as the club was relegated. The situation poses an early challenge for Peixoto, who aims to guide Wolves back to the Premier League.