The researchers hope the “mindreading” tool could reveal more about how the brain works. It could also help locked-in people communicate and, incredibly, maybe even allow scientists to recreate the content of dreams.

But other scientists warn that a similar approach could reveal people’s inner thoughts and mental imagery, potentially without their consent.

Here’s how AI is getting closer to reading images from the brain.

—Jessica Hamzelou

How smaller, distributed batteries could help the grid

Large, utility-scale battery installations are coming online quickly around the world. But there’s been pushback from communities, especially population-dense ones like NYC, because of concerns about relatively rare but high-profile battery fires.

Faced with those obstacles, some startups are getting creative, finding ways to use relatively small batteries in unexpected places, from induction stovetops to food carts. By deploying these more consumer-focused batteries, the companies are helping people directly, cutting pollution or power bills.

These units are small on their own, but could add up to a lot of capacity. And as batteries get cheaper, they could find their way into more corners of our lives.

Here’s why batteries could help ease pressure on the grid.