A list of intriguing things
One: Who says amphibians are creepy? Behold this yellow-bellied toad with heart-shaped eyes (what?). According to scientists, the unique shape is just one of the seven intriguing kinds found in frogs and toads—aka anurans. Their pupils can be erect, vertically elliptical, round, triangular and of course, heart-shaped. Here’s the interesting bit: scientists can’t find any good evolutionary reason for this dazzling diversity. But, hey, who cares when this cutie is making heart-eyes at us. Aww! (IFL Science)
Two: Bathrooms are getting super-smart these days. We’ve already introduced you to the toilet powered by Alexa. But that pales in comparison to some of the other tech-enabled fittings being rolled out today. Your toilet can now play doctor—and detect a variety of conditions—be it urinary tract infections and kidney issues. The e-mirror will let you know if you need moisturiser—or guide you through face yoga. And the shower comes with infrared lighting—for relaxation and stress relief. Even your goddamn bath mat can measure your weight, adjust your posture—and detect neurodegenerative diseases.
Our fave, however, has no health value whatsoever:
Earlier this year, Kohler came out with a bathtub called “Stillness Infinity Experience” that creates soothing waterfall sounds as bathwater overflows into a moat. It comes with a fog machine with aromatherapy capability and built-in custom coloured lighting meant to relax the user.
Of course, all this smart tech comes at a hefty price. Just an intelligent potty costs $8000. That said, who wants to see this mirror first thing in the morning? (Wall Street Journal)
Three: We leave you with the newly-opened Payana Vintage Car Museum—established by Rajya Sabha member Veerendra Heggade. It’s located on the Bangalore-Mysore highway—and kinda hard to miss. Mercifully, the cars inside are prettier than the building:) (The Hindu)
