Members of Congress received a warning this month about security vulnerabilities in the so-called internet of things (IoT), as cyber experts cautioned that with billions of new devices coming online, coordinated hacking attacks could become - literally - a matter of life and death.

No one looks forward to a hospital stay, but the tech amenities at Jacobs Medical Center could make visits more comfortable for patients. With an iPad and Apple TV in every room, patients will be able to control room settings such as temperature, lighting and window shades, the hospital says. They can access games, log into their own social and entertainment apps, and control the TV. The iPad also provides access to a patient's electronic medical records, including information such as medications, caregivers' names, diagnostic data, and upcoming lab work or medical procedures.

Digital mapping company Esri has announced a partnership with crowdsourcing traffic app maker Waze to help city governments and drivers communicate more efficiently about traffic conditions, including construction delays and accidents. By using Esri ArcGIS (geographic information system) software to connect to a new Waze connected citizens program, cities can share data about the conditions of their roads with drivers, while drivers can anonymously report accidents, potholes and other road condition information.