dna Tech Reads: From Google Play Store upgrade to crack in Earth's magnetic shield

1. Computing at the speed of light

Scientists from Purdue University have discovered 'spin-momentum locking'—a theory that connects the momentum of light waves with its spin. Read more here.

2. Crack in Earth's magnetic shield detected

The world's largest and most sensitive cosmic ray monitor, located in India, has recorded a burst of galactic cosmic rays that indicates a crack in the Earth's magnetic shield, according to scientists. Read more here.

3. Android gets record 87.5% of global smartphone market: Survey

Google's Android operating system captured a record-high 87.5 percent of the global smartphone market in the third quarter, a research firm said. Read more here.

4. New way to turn sewage into biofuel within minutes

Sewage treatment plants may soon turn human waste into fuel, thanks to a new technology that mimics the conditions of the Earth it uses to create crude oil - achieving in minutes something that takes Mother Nature millions of years. Read more here.

5. Alphabet's Google moves to upgrade app store 

Alphabet Inc's Google is redoubling efforts to help developers of Android mobile apps build their businesses as concerns mount that the app economy has reached saturation. Read more here.