It sounds like science fiction: Researchers at the University of Augsburg are developing an app that can recognize a coronavirus infection whenever a potential carrier speaks into the phone. So far, the app has a hit rate of over 80 percent. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

It’s time to celebrate Halloween at Hamburg’s Tierpark Hagenbeck — and to get into the holiday spirit, the elephants were treated to special seasonal goodies: pumpkins, corn on the cob, and apples! Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

After a relatively relaxed summer, Germany once again finds itself in a critical phase of the corona pandemic. Here, in a recording released on October 17, 2020, Chancellor Angela Merkel makes an appeal to citizens to significantly reduce their social outings and to refrain from unnecessary travel and celebrations.

Freaked out by the idea of a pilotless plane? How about one without any moving parts at all – no turbines, no propellers? The next generation of aircraft could involve ion propulsion, which allows planes to take off and land anywhere – all without making a sound.

Learn about traditional East Frisian costumes, German greetings and codes of conduct, and amusing proverbs in Part II of Cettina’s video on customs and traditions.

Rail travel is down 50% in Germany — but Deutsche Bahn is relying on scientific studies to prove that traveling by train does does not pose an increased risk to travelers. The strict hygiene and protective measures implemented so far appear to be working. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

What kinds of customs and traditions are characteristic of Germany? What are some common stereotypes about Germans? Find out the answers to these questions and more in this video. Enjoy!

Californian sea lions are quite adept on land, but spend most of their time in the water. They are considered to be elegant and intelligent animals with outstanding swimming abilities.

What sounds like a distant vision of the future is already possible today – at least when it comes to technology. Will quadcopters and "soulless" unmanned aircraft soon be transporting hundreds of passengers over long distances?

We continue following the humpback whales, learning about their migration patterns and how they raise their young. We also meet Californian sea lions, which, despite their heft, are very agile and adept — and also very peaceful.

Air travel has been the focus of much scrutiny lately due to its devastating effects on the environment. How will the aircraft of the future address this problem?

Faster Internet, more affordable Internet connections for pupils, and more devices for teachers: This is what the German ministers of education and Chancellor Angela Merkel have decided upon in order to facilitate distance learning during the corona crisis. Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

School is back in session in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany’s most populated state. To protect against coronavirus infections, masks are mandatory in school buildings and classrooms. How are the students and teachers dealing with the new requirements? Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

German summers are getting hotter and hotter — but the Environmental Agency in the small city of Giessen, in the state of Hesse, has come up with an innovative tool for helping residents keep cool: a special city map! Copyright: Deutsche Presse Agentur [The German Press Agency]

The race between airplane and train is coming to an end! Who will reach Alexanderplatz’s World Time Clock first—Claire or Olcay? It’s going to be close!