Science and Technology

App that offers many hands to make light work

A couple of years ago the summer storms in France were exceptional and parts of the Dordogne were without power for 50 hours! Winter storms are also damaging and, as always, those in rural areas bear the brunt, with their cabling more susceptible than areas where the lines run underground.  What can you do to make sure your equipment is protected in the event of a storm?

Lights out! 

I am having lots of visitors to stay for Christmas – any tips for improving my wifi?   

WeWard: the app that pays you to walk

Two friends, shocked at the amount of plastic dumped in the Mediterranean off Marseille, have set up a business – turning bottles into trainers.

The city of Nice tested state-of-the-art facial recognition technology at its annual February carnival – with impressive results. Oliver Rowland visited the city’s video surveillance unit, which ran the tests, to see how it uses artificial intelligence. We also spoke to Confidentia, the Monaco-based firm which developed the cutting-edge software

I have heard French keyboards are changing but now there is talk of something called Bépo – what is it? D.W.

An enhanced mobile phone location system that will automatically transmit a caller’s  location to emergency services is to launch in France before the end of the year.

Inspiration for the six-wheel chair came during a frustrating family ski holiday

Speculation that a flying taxi service will be in operation in Paris by 2024 is misplaced, according to Airbus.

Hybrid solar panels, invented and made in France and combining photovoltaic and water heating, are leading the way in efficiency.

Now that I am in France I find I use my internet much more. How can I improve my online security? 

I am keen to get fibre broadband as soon as possible but there seem to be obstacles in my way!  I am told Orange is installing fibre in my road but that I cannot get access using my existing supplier. A friend lives in an apartment and has been told she cannot use the company of her choice. It seems unnecessarily complicated – can you give some insight? I.F.

When I am using my mobile at home using its wifi, the signal varies a lot. What can I do about it?  K.P.

I am about to start house hunting in France. I am looking to buy a second home and intend to rent a property for several months while I research the area. What are my best broadband options so I can search for properties on line when there?