- Photon Matrix has begun marketing a $1,000 countertop that tracks mosquitoes midflight and zaps them with a laser burst, reports the .
- The laser concept was originally invented by a former Microsoft exec 20 years ago after Bill Gates requested tools to combat malaria, notes Ross Anderson at the .
- Photon Matrix claims its device is safe, with AI-powered technology that recognizes humans, pets, and harmless insects, but warns that the laser could damage human eyes and requires users to pass a safety quiz and register a fingerprint.
- Qatari mediators returned to Tehran on Friday to facilitate a deal between the US and Iran, coordinated with the US, according to an official briefed on the talks.
- Qatar presented a draft peace plan to Iran, but a senior Iranian official dismissed it as unacceptable and stated that Tehran would maintain its nuclear position.
- Iran's Foreign Minister stated that Tehran remains in contact with intermediaries regarding its own seven-day proposal to end the Middle East war.
- President Trump indicated that JD Vance's outreach to Iran was focused on medical supplies rather than peace talks.
Photon Matrix has introduced a $1,000 countertop laser device that tracks and eliminates mosquitoes using AI technology. The device, which requires users to pass a safety quiz and register a fingerprint, is designed to recognize humans and pets, ensuring safety during operation.1
Despite its innovative approach, the laser's effectiveness raises concerns. Keith Bradsher from the Times notes, "For anyone who has ever wished mosquitoes a horrible death, this is a strikingly high-tech way to make that wish a reality. The laser delivers a gruesome end, though not a quick one." Mosquitoes can take hours or even days to die after being hit, which may affect user satisfaction.
In parallel, Qatari mediators are actively engaging with Iranian officials to negotiate a deal between the US and Iran. An official briefed on the talks revealed that Qatar presented a draft peace plan, but a senior Iranian official dismissed it as unacceptable, insisting on maintaining their nuclear position. The US seeks to include nuclear issues in the negotiations, while Tehran demands the lifting of sanctions first.5678
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi stated that Tehran is in close contact with intermediaries to review proposals aimed at ending the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Meanwhile, President Donald Trump mentioned that Vice President JD Vance's outreach to Iran was focused on medical supplies, hinting at a broader context for the peace talks.9
“Photon Matrix's device requires a safety quiz and fingerprint to activate, as its laser could harm human eyes. The concept originated with a former Microsoft exec two decades ago after Bill Gates sought malaria-fighting tools, and Qatari mediators, coordinating with Washington, presented a draft plan Iran dismissed.”
