Fibre-optic cables are becoming the backbone of the Internet, from the main trunk lines between cities, countries and continents to the network of cables running from telephone central offices to individual homes and mobile phone base stations. A pioneering approach to data transmission, supported by EU funding, promises to increase the capacity, range and efficiency of fibre-optic networks. read more

Forget about fingerprints or iris recognition; the way you walk or move your hands, even your pulse, can be analysed for unique characteristics. EU-funded researchers are looking at ways this new technology could protect your security and make identity checking less obtrusive and more accurate. read more

From mobile phones to social networking, technology helps bring geographically dispersed people together. But most applications are designed for individuals, not groups or families. EU-funded research is addressing the issue with innovative tools designed to help families communicate and interact as naturally as possible even if they are hundreds or thousands of kilometres apart. read more