Dr Peter Bentley
Dr Peter Bentley is a computer scientist and author who is based at University College London. He is the author of books including 10 Short Lessons in Artificial Intelligence and Robotics and Digital Biology: How nature is transforming our technology and our lives.
Recent articles by Dr Peter Bentley
If AI is meant to be so intelligent, why can’t it identify a set of traffic lights?
The "I'm not a robot" box might not be so robot-proof after all.
How do IQ tests work?
IQ is useful for measuring a specific cognitive skillset but there's other ways to be smart.
The frustrating reasons electric cars are so expensive, explained by a scientist
Electric vehicles are comparatively new compared to the older combustion engine, and need different materials to power them.
Why turning a plane’s computer off and on again could save your life
Software, overflow and human errors all have the potential to cause serious problems.
Here’s what your biometric passport reveals about you
If you've applied for a British passport since 2010 you'll have a biometric passport which contains an electronic microprocessor chip.
The subtle (but simple) ways to spot a deepfake image
Deepfake technology is getting better and better. But it's not perfect.
How do robot vacuum cleaners navigate?
Just how do they avoid tumbling down the stairs?
Why do we still have dial tones on phones?
The closure of PSTN: In the biggest change to phone networks for 100 years, digital internet services will completely take over in 2025.
Why do computers and consoles need to restart to install updates?
Software comprises lots of files and programs all interacting.
Will interactive holograms ever become reality, like on the holodeck?
Step into the future as we take a closer look at the holodecks on Star Trek... they're closer than you might think.
How do apps and computers ‘get bugs’?
From coding to coffee spills, the real question is: how do computers not get bugs?
Google is killing off the password forever. Here’s what could replace it
Google’s new passkey software is a biometric replacement for old-fashioned password. Can we finally forget about having to remember what all our passwords are?
How incognito is incognito mode on your internet browser?
We have some bad news...
How does the internet actually work?
Around 65 per cent of the global population has access to the internet, but how does it work to find and retrieve data?
The website cookies actually worth accepting, according to a scientist
The constant pop-ups can be frustrating, to say the least...
How much energy does a smart meter use?
Smart meters give you real-time information on your energy usage.
How do machine learning GANs work?
GAN stands for generative adversarial network; a machine-learning model widely used in image and video generation.
How does a smart watch measure your stats?
Smart watches are packed full of sensors.
What is Web3?
It incorporates blockchain technology, cryptocurrency and NFTs.
How far does my computer mouse move?
It gets quite the workout.
How often should I reboot my computer?
The phrase 'have you tried turning it off and on again?' might actually be sound advice.
Could a deep fake unlock an iPhone?
Deep fakes are a type of artificial intelligence that can be used to recreate the likeness of a real person.
How does wireless charging work?
After decades of fighting with tangled wires, being able to drop your device onto a charging pad is a gamechanger.
How do you read binary numbers?
Learn the basics of binary with our handy guide.