Medical AI Is Growing Fast Artificial intelligence is moving rapidly into hospitals, clinics and diagnostic systems. AI can now help analyse medical images, calculate cardiovascular risk, support surgical planning and identify patterns that may be difficult for humans to spot quickly. But a new study has raised an important question: Are these technologies actually making patients healthier? 1,357 AI Medical Devices — But Only Three Tested on Patient Outcomes A study published in PLOS Digital Health on 19 August 2026 examined 1,357 AI and machine-learning medical devices that had received U.S. FDA clearance or approval through December 2025. Researchers found that only 34 devices — 2.5% — were linked to registered prospective clinical trials . Just 12 had posted trial results, 12 had peer-reviewed publications, and only three devices — approximately 0.2% — had been evaluated using patient-centred outcomes suc...

Technology is moving into a more demanding stage of development. For the past few years, much of the conversation has focused on the possibilities of artificial intelligence. In 2026, businesses are asking more practical questions: Can the technology be trusted? Is it secure? What will it cost to operate? How should it be governed? And will it deliver measurable value? The latest global developments show that AI, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure and semiconductor capacity are becoming closely connected. Organisations can no longer approach these areas as separate technology decisions. Here are the developments currently reshaping the global business environment. AI is moving from assistance to action The first generation of widely adopted AI tools mainly helped people generate text, analyse information and improve productivity. The next generation is increasingly agentic . This means AI systems can perform multi-step tasks, use software tools, interact with external systems ...

Published:  4 August 2026 Author: Maria José Adão-Dercksen | Skunkworks Academy | Portugal Category: Artificial Intelligence & Cloud Computing Reading Time: 8 Minutes Introduction Portugal is quietly positioning itself as one of Europe's most important destinations for artificial intelligence infrastructure. While much of the global conversation around AI focuses on Copilot, ChatGPT, large language models, and automation, a critical foundation is being built behind the scenes: data centres, cloud platforms, high-capacity fibre networks, and sustainable energy systems. Over the past few years, Portugal has attracted billions of euros in investment into AI-ready digital infrastructure. With major developments underway in Sines and Lisbon, alongside new transatlantic submarine cable connections, the country is rapidly emerging as a strategic gateway connecting Europe, Africa, and the Americas. Portugal's rise is not accidental. It reflects a combination of strategic geograp...

  By the Skunkworks Team – Portugal Portugal Is No Longer Europe's Hidden Gem Portugal is no longer a quiet player in Europe—it’s becoming a strategic innovation hub . While economic growth remains steady at around 1.7%–2% , the country is building strength where it matters most: 👉 Sustainability 👉 Technology 👉 Financial innovation At Skunkworks , we actively explore and capitalise on these opportunities across regions through training, partnerships, and innovation ecosystems. 👉 Learn more: Skunkworks Africa ⚡ 1. Renewable Energy: Europe’s Quiet Leader Portugal is no longer just participating in the energy transition—it’s leading it. What’s happening: Over 80% of electricity generated from renewables Major investment in solar, wind, and hydro energy Strong pipeline of €60+ billion in renewable projects by 2030 Growing focus on green hydrogen and storage Why it matters: Portugal has turned energy into a strategic advantage : Reduced dependence on volatile global energy markets M...