Digest for 1/19/2026

Artificial intelligence is getting smarter by leaps and bounds -- within this century, research suggests, a computer AI could be as 'smart' as a human being. And then, says Nick Bostrom, it will overtake us: 'Machine intelligence is the last invention that humanity will ever need to make.'

Scared of superintelligent AI? You should be, says neuroscientist and philosopher Sam Harris -- and not just in some theoretical way. We're going to build superhuman machines, says Harris, but we haven't yet grappled with the politics and ethics of how best to contain and manage them.

There's a lot of talk about the need to regulate AI, but physicist Max Tegmark says we need to think bigger: what if we could design AI to make our lives better in every way? Tegmark explores the exciting possibilities of life with superintelligent machines -- and how we can ensure that the benefits of AI are shared fairly.

Shohini Ghose wants us to get excited about quantum computers, which operate using an entirely different logic than classical computing. She explains the basics and explores what makes quantum computing so powerful.

Dario Gil uses a deck of cards to explain the principles of quantum computing and its transformative power.

Winfried Hensinger discusses the realities and potential of quantum computers, separating fact from fiction.

Bill Gates unveils his vision for the world's energy future, describing the need for 'miracles' to avoid planetary catastrophe and explaining why he's backing a dramatically different type of nuclear reactor. The essential goal? Zero carbon emissions globally by 2050.

Boyan Slat shares his bold plan to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch using innovative technology to harness ocean currents.

At age 14, in poverty and famine, a Malawian boy built a windmill to power his family's home. Now William Kamkwamba returns to the TED stage to share the remarkable developments since then.