US to 'hand over' the Internet's naming system

In this edition of the Worldwide Wrap, the US is set to cede power of the Internet's naming system to a non-profit organisation on 1 October, and researchers have created temporary tattoos that can be used to control smartphones.

The US is set to cede power of the Internet's naming system to a non-profit organisation on 1 October, ending the almost 20-year process to hand over a crucial part of the Internet's governance.

The Domain Naming System (DNS) is one of the Internet's most important components. It pairs the easy-to-remember Web addresses with their relevant servers. Without DNS, one would only be able to access a Web site by typing in its IP address, a series of numbers such as "194.66.82.10".
Via: BBC

Researchers have created temporary tattoos that are sensitive to touch and can be used to control electronic devices like smartphones.

Working in collaboration with Microsoft Research, researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Media Lab produced the temporary tattoos, which are called DuoSkin.
Via: Daily Mail

China's launch of the first quantum satellite on Tuesday will push forward efforts to develop the ability to send communications that can't be penetrated by hackers, experts said.

The satellite launched into space from the Jiuquan launch base in north-western China's Gobi desert, will allow Chinese researchers to transmit test messages between Beijing and north-western China as well as other locations around the world.
Via: BBC

Audi's new Q7 and A4 cars will 'talk' to smart traffic lights as soon as next year, saving time wasted waiting at intersections.

Drivers will see a countdown to green lights in their car, allowing them to pull away promptly at the lights.
Via: Wired

Uber users in India can now order rides even if they don't have the app installed on their smartphone, thanks to a new feature the company introduced.

With the "dial an Uber" service, customers can order a ride by navigating to a dial.uber.com on their mobile browser and registering or logging in with their phone number.
Via: The Verge

Tencent, the owner of popular social messaging app WeChat, overtook e-commerce giant Alibaba to become China's most valuable technology company on Thursday.

Data compiled by spreadbettor IG showed Tencent's market capitalisation was around $246.35billion, at 10.40am HK/SIN, compared with US-listed Alibaba's market capitalisation of $242.04 billion.
Via: CNBC