Welcome to Discover Daily by Perplexity , an AI-generated show on tech , science and culture . I'm Isaac . Today we're exploring a fascinating development in materials science that could change how we think about aluminum . But first let's look at what else is happening . Our first story today is about the iPhone 17 , which might be getting a major design overhaul .
According to recent leaks reported by Apple Insider , apple is set to introduce significant changes to its iPhone 17 lineup , potentially reshaping the iconic device's aesthetics . The most notable change is expected to be in the camera design . All models in the iPhone 17 lineup are rumored to feature a horizontal bar-shaped camera layout .
For the ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air , this might manifest as an elongated camera bump housing a single rear camera with the microphone and LED flash relocated to the right side of the bar . The Pro models may adopt a more expansive version of this horizontal matrix , with a larger bar spanning the entire width of the device's back .
If these rumors prove to be true , the new design will represent a significant departure from the current vertical camera arrangement , suggesting Apple's continued evolution in both form and function . Suggesting Apple's continued evolution in both form and function .
Industry analysts speculate this change could allow for improved optical performance while maintaining the device's slim profile . The horizontal bar design might also provide better stability when the phone is placed on flat surfaces , addressing a common complaint about current models .
These changes are expected to be unveiled in September , marking the most substantial update to iPhone aesthetics in recent years . The iPhone 17 Pro Max is also rumored to introduce some new display technology .
This may include a new metal lens for Face ID that will integrate the transmitter and receiver components , significantly reducing the size of the dynamic island Again . If true , this advancement could pave the way for even more screen real estate , while maintaining the security features users have come to rely on .
Moving on to our second story , openai has made some changes to its popular AI chatbot , chatgpt . The company has removed certain content warning messages from the platform in an effort to enhance user experience , while maintaining essential safety measures .
This update implemented in February 2025 , eliminates orange-box warning messages that previously indicated potential terms of service violations . According to the company , the change allows for more natural conversations , particularly around nuanced subjects like mental health and fictional content , which often triggered unnecessary warnings .
Nick Turley , the head of product for ChatGPT , emphasized that users should be able to quote "use ChatGPT as they see fit , within legal and ethical boundaries" . This update addresses criticism from prominent figures who claimed the platform was overly restrictive and biased .
The removal has led to several notable impacts Users are experiencing fewer interruptions in conversations , and discussions on previously flagged topics can now proceed more naturally . According to some , the chatbot feels more intuitive and less restrictive , encouraging more nuanced and meaningful interactions .
Despite the removal , openai maintains that it has robust safety measures to ensure responsible AI usage . The chatbot continues to refuse objectionable questions and prohibits responses supporting blatant falsehoods . According to the company , core safety protocols remain in place to protect against harmful content .
Now let's dive into our main story of the day , which brings us an exciting development in materials science . Filipino scientists from Ateneo de Manila University have developed a cost-effective method to create transparent aluminum oxide using micro-droplets of acid and minimal electricity .
This breakthrough could have applications in electronics , solar energy and protective coatings . The researchers , in collaboration with the NARA Institute of Science and Technology , achieved this feat using a novel , low-cost method called droplet-scale anodization .
This process involves applying micro droplets of acidic solution to ordinary aluminum surfaces and passing a minimal electric current of just 2 volts , barely more than what's found in a typical AA battery . The innovation transforms regular aluminum into a glass-like , transparent material , bringing to life a concept previously relegated to science fiction .
The process relies on the electrowetting effect , where an electric field alters the properties of liquid droplets on the aluminum surface . The technique allows researchers to precisely control the anodization , making it significantly simpler than traditional methods . It's extremely simple and cost-effective .
The method eliminates the need for expensive equipment like high-powered lasers , vacuum chambers or large vats of dangerous acids , which are typically required in conventional transparent aluminum oxide production . The process is also environmentally friendly , minimizing chemical waste and energy consumption .
While the potential applications are promising , some experts maintain a cautiously optimistic outlook . Dr Sarah Chen , a materials scientist at MIT , notes that scaling this technology from laboratory success to industrial production could present significant challenges . Still , the possibilities are intriguing .
It could be used in touchscreens and optical sensors for enhanced durability and performance , ultra-durable vehicle coatings to protect against wear and environmental damage , and even in solar panels to improve efficiency and longevity .
The material could also find applications in miniaturized electronics and as protective coatings for buildings to increase resilience against harsh weather conditions .
By approaching the challenge of creating transparent aluminum from a new angle , these researchers have not only achieved their goal , but have done so in a way that's more accessible and potentially scalable for various industries . That's it for today . Thanks for tuning in . Don't forget to subscribe on your favorite platform For more info on anything we covered today .
Check out the links in our episode description . And don't forget you can now access Perplexity's AI-powered knowledge base on the go with the mobile app , available for both Android and iOS . There's also the Perplexity desktop app for macOS .
In other Perplexity news , the company just launched Deep Research , a powerful new feature that digs deep into hundreds of sources to create thorough research reports . The tool , which is free to try and unlimited for pro users , can tackle complex research questions in just minutes .
Early tests show it's remarkably accurate , making it a promising tool for anyone needing in-depth research assistance . We'll be back with more stories that matter . Until then , stay curious .