Alvaro Lopez Ortega / 2026-03-30 Briefing

Created Tue, 31 Mar 2026 01:09:24 +0000 Modified Wed, 15 Apr 2026 19:56:10 +0000
10138 Words

Microsoft temporarily disabled a Copilot AI feature after it injected unauthorized ads into developer code, sparking user backlash. NASA initiated the countdown for the Artemis II mission, a crewed lunar flyby launching April 1st, marking a significant step in space exploration. In the UK, Apple’s Irish subsidiary was fined for payments to a Russian developer linked to sanctions, while US PC shipments are projected to drop 13% due to memory and storage shortages. Separately, cybersecurity vulnerabilities have been identified across multiple platforms, highlighting critical infrastructure risks.

🚀 Space & Exploration

Artemis II countdown begins as NASA prepares for crewed Moon flyby

NASA has begun the countdown for the Artemis II mission, slated to launch April 1st, which will send four astronauts on a crewed flyby around the Moon – the first such mission in over 50 years. The mission aims to surpass distance records set by Apollo 13 and will involve a temporary loss of communication as the spacecraft passes behind the Moon. This represents a key step toward future lunar exploration efforts.

Apollo’s impatient old-timers are rooting for NASA’s return to the moon

Former NASA employees from the Apollo program are eagerly anticipating the Artemis II mission, which will mark a return to lunar exploration. They express some frustration about the long delay and wish more of the original Apollo team were still alive to witness the event. The group welcomes the accelerated pace of the Artemis program and the inclusion of women in key roles.

A SpaceX Starlink satellite (34343) exploded in orbit on March 29, 2026, according to LeoLabs, creating numerous fragments. The explosion was likely caused by an internal energetic source, mirroring a similar incident with another Starlink satellite last year. The resulting debris is expected to de-orbit within weeks, prompting a need for further analysis of such events.

A sea of sparks: Seeing radioactivity

Radioactive decay can be visually observed as faint flashes of light, a phenomenon called scintillation. Alpha particles emitted from elements like uranium and americium create these flashes when they strike a zinc sulfide screen, converting energy into visible photons. Extremely dark conditions and magnification are required to witness this effect, which appears as tiny, fleeting points of light.

JD Vance says aliens are ‘demons’ and details obsession with UFOs

Vice President JD Vance has expressed a strong interest in unidentified anomalous phenomena (UAPs), stating he intends to investigate them further. He believes these phenomena are likely “demons” rather than extraterrestrial aliens, aligning with his Christian beliefs. Vance’s comments follow renewed public and governmental attention to UAPs, including promises to release related government files.

Bird brains (2023)

New Zealand’s Kea parrots have demonstrated remarkable intelligence by manipulating traffic cones to obtain food from motorists, prompting the government to build specialized “kea gyms” for their entertainment. Scientists measure bird intelligence through various tests assessing self-awareness, problem-solving, and spatial memory, revealing complex cognitive abilities. These studies highlight that birds possess surprisingly sophisticated capabilities, including future planning and communication.

🤖 AI & Automation

SAP looking to pull more external data into its AI platform with Reltio acquisition

SAP is acquiring Reltio, a data integration specialist, to enhance its Business Data Cloud platform and integrate external data sources into its AI capabilities. This acquisition will improve data harmonization and enable the development of AI agents by connecting both SAP and non-SAP data. SAP hopes the move will boost adoption of its Business Data Cloud, which has faced challenges in gaining user traction.

South Korean AI chip startup Rebellions eyes new shores for rack-scale invasion

South Korean AI chip startup Rebellions is expanding globally with a new rack-scale compute platform, RebelRack and RebelPods, after establishing a presence in South Korea. The company’s chiplet-based AI accelerators, similar to Nvidia’s, are designed for broader enterprise adoption using existing data center infrastructure and standard cooling methods. Rebellions benefits from strong partnerships with Samsung and SK Hynix for memory sourcing and manufacturing.

Humanoid robots one tiny step closer to exterminating autoworkers’ jobs

Humanoid Robotics has successfully integrated its wheeled humanoid robot into a warehouse logistics workflow using SAP’s AI systems, demonstrating its ability to perform tasks like picking and pallet handling. This proof-of-concept suggests potential for humanoid robots in manufacturing, although widespread adoption is currently limited by high costs and technological challenges. The integration highlights a shift towards robots functioning as extensions of business operations within existing workflows.

Agentic AI and the next intelligence explosion

Recent AI research indicates the next intelligence explosion will likely involve “agentic AI,” creating systems that simulate cognitive debates and function as interconnected “societies of thought.” This development is leading to “human-AI centaurs” and requires a new approach called “institutional alignment,” utilizing digital protocols to manage this complex collaboration. The model envisions a future AI intelligence expanding like a city with specialized, interconnected components.

Tickets Are Prompts

AI agents are now exhibiting flawed behavior, mirroring the limitations of fragmented work tickets. These tickets, acting as prompts, restrict reasoning and can introduce bugs by defining overly narrow scopes. Experts recommend focusing tickets on broad outcomes rather than granular tasks to allow agents more flexibility and improve overall performance.

AI Didn’t Break the Senior Engineer Pipeline. It Showed That One Never Existed

AI’s emergence has highlighted a lack of formal engineering development practices within the software industry. Previously, a natural “junior to senior” progression occurred due to challenging work environments that fostered learning through struggle and consequence, not through a deliberate system. AI is now removing these developmental frictions, revealing that the industry’s engineering growth was accidental rather than structured.

We scored 50k PRs with AI – what we learned about code complexity

A CTO and their team developed GitVelocity, a system that uses AI (specifically Claude) to score merged code pull requests across multiple dimensions. Analysis of over 50,000 PRs revealed that code complexity, not just size, drives scores, and that engineers, even junior ones, can improve their performance when given this data. The tool has also fostered a “Fitbit effect,” encouraging engineers to proactively track and improve their work.

Phantom – Open-source AI agent on its own VM that rewrites its config

Phantom is an open-source AI agent that operates on its own dedicated virtual machine, allowing it to retain context and improve over time. Unlike chatbots, it can autonomously perform tasks like installing software and building tools, even extending its capabilities without explicit instructions. Examples include creating analytics platforms and adding new communication channels like Discord.

Mathematical methods and human thought in the age of AI

A new paper explores the impact of rapidly advancing artificial intelligence on mathematics and society, framing AI as a natural progression of human tools. It advocates for a human-centered approach to AI development, prioritizing the enhancement of human thought and addressing societal needs. The authors suggest integrating AI into challenging fields to benefit all of humankind.

The stealthy startup that pitched brainless human clones

Startup R3 Bio, backed by prominent investors, initially claimed to be developing monkey organ models but has been linked to a controversial proposal for “brainless human clones” for organ harvesting or brain transplants. The company now denies these plans, but evidence suggests continued exploration of these ethically complex ideas within a secretive life-extension community. R3 Bio recently announced its existence and funding after operating in secrecy for years.

I am definitely missing the pre-AI writing era

The author’s writing was rejected due to AI detection, prompting them to reflect on a decline in their writing skills since the rise of AI writing tools. They attribute this loss of creativity and unique voice to over-reliance on AI assistance, making it difficult to produce original work. The rejection served as a reminder of the value of raw, unedited expression and a desire to reclaim their natural writing abilities.

Stanford study reveals AI vision models invent images they never see

A new Stanford study has found that AI vision models can generate accurate descriptions and achieve high scores even without actual image input, a phenomenon called “mirage reasoning.” These models appear to rely on textual cues instead of visual processing, raising concerns about the reliability of current AI evaluations, particularly in medical fields. Researchers have introduced a new benchmark, B-Clean, to improve the accuracy and fairness of assessing AI vision capabilities.

Sacks, Krishnan Join Trump AI Efforts

David Sacks is transitioning out of his formal White House AI advisory role but will continue to shape Donald Trump’s AI strategy through the President’s Council of Advisors and a new AI advocacy group. This move allows Sacks to pursue his policy goals with fewer restrictions and provides some distance amid concerns about AI development within the Republican party. Sriram Krishnan will be taking on a new role at the National Economic Council to focus on AI policy.

AI Concerns Rise: Poll Shows Skepticism on Harm & Data Centers

A Quinnipiac poll reveals growing American apprehension towards AI, with 55% believing it will cause more harm than good in daily life, a significant increase from April. Furthermore, 65% of Americans oppose the construction of data centers in their communities, suggesting broader concerns about AI’s infrastructure. These findings highlight rising anxieties about AI’s potential impact on job security and education.

AI Safety Concerns Grow With Advanced Models

AI capabilities continue to improve exponentially, with AI even being used to accelerate its own development. While progress has been made in aligning AI systems, significant challenges remain, including adversarial robustness and a lack of societal preparedness. A positive development is the ability to use AI to monitor other AI models, but further research and scaling of alignment efforts are crucial.

ChatGPT app integrations grow, but adoption slow.

ChatGPT’s app store, launched six months ago, now boasts over 300 integrations but adoption has been slow. Developers cite limited functionality, a cumbersome approval process, and a lack of data as reasons for the underwhelming performance. The initiative, initially intended to create an all-in-one platform, is currently facing challenges due to partner hesitancy and technical limitations.

LLMs Struggle with Games, Says NYU Professor

Large language models (LLMs) consistently struggle to play video games effectively, despite their advancements in coding and other areas. This limitation stems from a lack of general game AI capabilities, insufficient data for many games, and deficiencies in spatial reasoning. The inability of LLMs to master video games highlights broader limitations in their AI capabilities beyond specialized tasks like coding.

AI Boosts Fake Applications, Firms Return to In-Person Assessments

Some employers, including L’Oréal, are reverting to in-person assessments during recruitment. This shift is due to a significant increase in AI-generated applications making it difficult to distinguish genuine candidates. Companies are creating “AI-free zones” in the interview process to combat this issue.

DeepSeek Chatbot Outage Hits China for 7+ Hours

DeepSeek’s chatbot experienced a significant seven-hour outage in China, marking the largest disruption since its 2025 debut. Users reported issues beginning Sunday evening, and the company deployed multiple updates to resolve the performance problems. The incident highlights an unusual downtime for a globally utilized application.

💻 Tech Business & Finance

Copilot Ads Controversy and Backlash

Microsoft’s GitHub has temporarily disabled a feature within its Copilot AI assistant after it unexpectedly injected advertisements into over 1.5 million pull requests, altering user descriptions and comments. Developers expressed concerns and backlash over the unauthorized promotional insertions, which were intended to suggest related tools. GitHub acknowledged the misjudgment and has disabled the feature while addressing user feedback.

US PC shipments to fall 13% as memory and storage crunch hits budget systems

US PC shipments are projected to decline by 13% this year due to a shortage of memory and storage, particularly impacting budget systems. Rising costs, driven by demand from the AI sector, are expected to persist for several years, hindering growth until at least 2029. The education sector, reliant on ChromeOS platforms, is especially vulnerable to this downturn.

UK fines Irish Apple outpost over sanctions-busting payments to Russian dev

Apple’s Irish subsidiary, Apple Distribution International, was fined £390,000 by the UK for making payments totaling £635,000 to a Russian app developer linked to a sanctioned individual. The payments occurred in 2022 due to a delay in updating Apple’s payment systems following sanctions, highlighting the UK’s strict liability regime. Apple proactively reported the issue and cooperated with regulators, which resulted in a reduced penalty.

“CEO said a thing” journalism

A growing trend in U.S. journalism, termed “CEO said a thing!” involves reporting statements from business leaders without critical analysis or fact-checking. This practice often functions as corporate promotion, obscuring misleading claims and avoiding challenges to powerful executives. The trend is particularly prevalent in business and tech reporting, and has been criticized for normalizing unquestioning acceptance of corporate narratives.

Tech & AI Funding Boom

Several companies are racing to expand AI infrastructure and capabilities, with Starcloud securing $170 million to build data centers in space and Mistral AI raising $830 million for European data centers. DigitalOcean plans an $800 million stock offering to bolster its cloud and AI platform, while Sycamore received $65 million to develop an AI operating system for enterprise deployment. These developments highlight the surging demand for AI infrastructure and services, potentially linked to SpaceX’s future IPO and distribution through E*Trade.

72% of the dollar’s purchasing power was destroyed in just four episodes

A new analysis of the Consumer Price Index reveals the US dollar has lost 96.9% of its purchasing power since 1914. This loss was largely concentrated in four distinct inflationary periods, accounting for 72% of the overall price increases despite representing only 29% of the time. The data highlights that inflation occurs in sudden bursts rather than a gradual decline.

Euro-Office Wants to Replace Google Docs and Microsoft Office

Euro-Office is a new, European-led open-source project aiming to create a collaborative online office suite as an alternative to Google Docs and Microsoft Office. Built as a fork of the OnlyOffice platform, it seeks to provide a sovereign and transparent solution compatible with Microsoft Office formats and integrable with existing cloud services. The initiative aims to reduce reliance on non-European-based software and foster digital independence within Europe.

How to Survive in the Tech industry in 2026

The tech industry of 2026 demands adaptation to an AI-driven environment, requiring technologists to cultivate business acumen and build versatile teams with diverse skill sets. Utilizing AI tools effectively and prioritizing real-world interaction are also crucial for success. Ultimately, continuous learning and a human-centric approach are essential for thriving in this evolving landscape.

Apple scales back its AI ambitions and sticks to selling hardware

Apple is refocusing its strategy away from leading in AI and back to its core business of hardware and services. The company plans to integrate AI features into its devices while also allowing third-party AI apps access through iOS 27 Extensions, generating revenue through App Store commissions. Apple is partnering with Google to improve Siri’s capabilities using Gemini technology.

OpenAI Product Shutdowns Signal Strategy Shift

Several tech companies are facing setbacks: Rec Room is shutting down due to profitability challenges and halting new user sign-ups, while OpenAI has paused the rollout of its Sora video-generation tool, derailing a potential $1 billion partnership with Disney. These decisions reflect broader challenges in the VR market and emerging copyright concerns surrounding AI-generated content, prompting shifts in strategy for both companies. The future of Rec Room remains uncertain with ongoing transaction discussions.

Is Another Financial Crisis Lurking in Private Credit?

Recent restrictions on withdrawals from some private credit funds are raising concerns due to parallels with the 2007 financial crisis, including rapid growth and limited regulation. While a repeat of the 2007-09 crisis is unlikely, vulnerabilities within the private credit market, especially considering rising interest rates, require careful observation. Experts caution that unforeseen events could still trigger unexpected financial shocks.

Micron shares plunge; Sandisk, Western Digital also fall.

Micron shares fell 10% on Monday, extending a decline that has seen the stock drop 30% since an earnings report on March 18. The sell-off impacted other memory makers like SanDisk and Western Digital, reflecting concerns about the company’s future outlook despite strong AI-driven earnings. Micron’s stock is now up only 2% year-to-date, a significant retreat from previous gains.

Anthropic Projected to Lose Billions, Valuation Soars: Leaked Docs

Coatue, in a leaked January presentation, projected a $1.995 trillion valuation for Anthropic by 2030, anticipating substantial revenue and EBITDA growth. The firm forecasts significant losses for Anthropic through 2026, followed by massive profitability by 2031. This projection comes after Coatue co-led a $30 billion investment in the AI startup.

Software Engineer Pay Up: $200K Base Now Common at Startups

According to Levels.fyi, median base salary offers for US software engineers at venture capital-backed startups have increased by 25% since 2022, reaching $200,000. While total compensation has also risen, the increase is smaller at 18%, indicating a shift towards higher base salaries rather than equity-based compensation. This trend reflects a competitive job market favoring tech employees.

Apple Halts Intelligence in China Amid Regulatory Hurdles

Apple accidentally launched its AI features, Apple Intelligence, in China before securing regulatory approval. The rollout was quickly pulled, indicating Apple is still working to meet Chinese government requirements for AI development. An official launch remains pending, despite the features being reportedly ready for months.

Instagram Plus: New subscription tests extra features

Meta is testing Instagram Plus, a premium subscription offering exclusive features like anonymous Story viewing and extended Story durations. The subscription is currently being tested in countries including Mexico, Japan, and the Philippines, with pricing varying by region. This new offering is separate from Meta Verified, which caters to content creators and businesses.

Uber to Buy Blacklane, Boosts Elite Service

Uber has agreed to acquire Berlin-based chauffeur booking app Blacklane to enhance its Uber Elite service. The deal, which closes by the end of 2026, will allow Uber to cater to a more premium customer base. The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed.

Wise to Launch UK Bank Accounts, Challenges Monzo

Wise, a London-based money transfer company, is launching UK bank accounts with a variable interest rate. This move aims to compete with established banks and other fintechs in an increasingly crowded market. The new accounts will allow customers to hold money and set up direct debits.

Amazon expands to rural US, challenges Walmart’s dominance.

Amazon is investing $4 billion to expand its delivery services to rural areas, aiming to offer 24-hour delivery to a significant portion of households. This initiative, partly spurred by criticism regarding USPS delivery costs, seeks to capture a large share of the $1 trillion annual rural retail market. The company faces competition from Walmart, which has long dominated the rural retail landscape.

Yuanjie Chip Revenue Soars, IPO Looms

Chinese laser chipmaker Yuanjie Semiconductor is preparing for a Hong Kong IPO, fueled by surging demand for AI infrastructure and data centers. The company projects a significant revenue increase, with data center revenue expected to jump nearly 720% year-over-year. Yuanjie currently ranks as the sixth-largest global laser chip provider and second-largest supplier for silicon photonics-based optical interconnects.

Private Credit Funds Hide Software Exposure, Raising Investor Worries

A Wall Street Journal analysis revealed that four major private-credit funds have significantly higher exposure to the software industry—around 25%—than previously disclosed in their filings, approximately 19%. This discrepancy arises amid investor concerns about the potential impact of artificial intelligence on software companies, contributing to recent withdrawals from private-credit funds. Fund managers maintain that AI’s effects will vary among software firms.

App Store Reviews Slowed by “Vibe” Apps

Developers are reporting significantly longer wait times for App Store approvals, potentially due to a surge in apps created using accessible “vibe coding” tools. While Apple maintains that most submissions are reviewed within 48 hours, some developers are experiencing delays of weeks. Experts suggest Apple may need to scale its review processes to accommodate the increasing volume of app submissions fueled by AI.

Midjourney Revenue Surpasses $200M, Still Growing

Midjourney’s CEO confirmed the company generated over $200 million in revenue for 2023 and has seen continued growth since then. The AI image generator is profitable through subscriptions and is now considering developing its own hardware. Despite this success, Midjourney faces increasing competition, particularly from Google.

Clojure: The Documentary (Trailer)

The article announces the release of a trailer for “Clojure: The Documentary.” The documentary appears to be about the programming language Clojure, though details are currently limited. Viewers can find the trailer on YouTube.

🛡️ Security & Privacy

Cybersecurity Alerts and Exploits

Recent security incidents have exposed critical vulnerabilities across several platforms, including F5 BIG-IP, Citrix NetScaler, Telegram, and ChatGPT, demonstrating a range of exploitation methods from remote code execution to zero-click attacks. Simultaneously, a misconfiguration at Railway web app host led to a significant data breach, highlighting the risks of unintended infrastructure changes. These events underscore the ongoing challenges in securing both software and cloud infrastructure, as well as the need for robust testing and proactive vulnerability management.

Security contractor blew the whistle on support crew’s viral indifference

A security contractor, “Brad,” reported that the labor hire company’s IT support team routinely ignored security alerts and closed them without addressing the underlying issues. Following Brad’s whistleblowing and reporting of the team’s negligence, the entire IT support team was terminated. The timing of their dismissal strongly suggests a direct consequence of Brad’s actions.

White House Renamed ‘Epstein Island’ on Google Pixel Phones

Google Maps displayed “Epstein Island” instead of “White House” on some Pixel phones, prompting reports and investigations. The error stemmed from unauthorized changes to Google’s business listing databases. The cause remains unclear, although reports initially linked it to a meme referencing Melania Trump.

We hid a free trip to Switzerland in our privacy policy

Cape ran a promotion hiding a free trip to Switzerland within its privacy policy to gauge how many users actually read it, and one person claimed the prize. The experiment revealed that most people ignore privacy policies, potentially leading to data privacy violations. Cape aims to improve transparency and encourages users to review policies and take control of their data.

European Data Breaches and Tech Shifts

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Recover Apple Keychain

A MacBook user locked themselves out and reset their password, which resulted in the loss of their encrypted keychain data. They recovered the data by manually replacing the newly created keychain file with the original backup file. The process involved renaming the backup file and re-syncing the data using the old password.

I Regret the Blood Pact I Have Made with iCloud Photos

The author regrets their reliance on Apple’s iCloud Photo Library, which has resulted in a massive 1.5 TB photo collection and increasingly expensive storage upgrades. They are attempting to create a separate, unsynced photo library to manage storage, but are facing frustrating technical limitations within Apple’s Photos software. The experience has raised concerns about the reliability and transparency of iCloud’s photo management practices.

Bitwarden integrates with OneCLI agent vault

Bitwarden has launched an Agent Access SDK integrated with OneCLI, enabling AI agents to access credentials from Bitwarden vaults with human approval. This system prevents agents from directly holding sensitive credentials by injecting them into API requests through OneCLI after user authorization, enhancing security. The open-source integration aims to provide a “trust layer” for AI agent credential management.

Everyone Hates iPhone Autocorrect. An Update Fixes One of the Biggest Problems

Users have widely reported increased typos and punctuation errors when using the iPhone’s autocorrect feature. A recent update aims to address these widespread complaints about the functionality. Many iPhone users have expressed concern over a perceived decline in typing accuracy over the past year.

Contextualizing Cryptography

Cryptography researchers are increasingly feeling disconnected from the practical impact of their work due to a lack of context and focus on real-world applications. This disconnect stems from neglecting ethical considerations and failing to explicitly define research goals, such as problem-solving or achieving impact. To address this, researchers have launched initiatives like the Community-Driven Cryptography Project and the ReCAP workshop to encourage more impactful cryptography research.

Match’s OkCupid hit with 20-year privacy crackdown after sharing users’ private photos with AI firm

OkCupid, a dating app owned by Match, faces a 20-year privacy crackdown for sharing users’ private photos with an AI firm without consent. The incident, revealed in a 2023 investigation, reportedly involved sending image data to Lumina to improve matching algorithms. Regulators are now investigating the practice as a potential breach of user privacy.

Researchers warn that macOS users face browser credential-stealing attack

Researchers have identified a new attack targeting macOS users that steals browser credentials. The vulnerability exploits a flaw allowing malicious websites to access saved passwords and other sensitive information. Users are advised to enable JavaScript and cookies to continue browsing, though the specific mitigation steps remain unclear.

Ajax silenced hacker who found 2017 data breach

Ajax has reportedly silenced a hacker who discovered a 2017 data breach. The breach occurred years ago, but remained undetected until the hacker brought it to light. The article instructs readers to enable JavaScript and cookies to proceed.

⚙️ Engineering & Development

Microsoft Fabric Database Hub only a ‘partial’ solution for admins

Microsoft’s new Fabric Database Hub provides centralized management for Microsoft databases within its data platform, offering improved connectivity and AI-powered insights. Analysts consider it a “partial solution” due to its limited support for non-Microsoft systems, primarily benefiting organizations deeply invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. Wider enterprise adoption should be approached cautiously until broader compatibility is established.

Microsoft yanks Windows 11 preview update after install failures

Microsoft has paused the rollout of Windows 11 preview update KB5079391 due to widespread installation errors reported by users. The update, intended to showcase new features for versions 24H2 and 25H2, is not mandatory and availability has been limited while the issue is investigated. Microsoft has not yet disclosed the cause of the problem or when the update might resume distribution.

Router Restrictions and Innovation

A new US policy restricting router imports is driving interest in creating homemade routers using common computer hardware and Linux software. This approach highlights the fundamental nature of routers as computers and offers a potential workaround for import limitations. However, critics argue the policy is protectionist, potentially hindering security updates and benefiting domestic manufacturers.

OpenGridWorks: The Electricity Infrasctructure, Mapped

The article highlights OpenGridWorks, a platform focused on mapping electricity infrastructure. It appears to be currently displaying a map of power plants. Further details about the platform’s functionality and scope are not provided.

Database Joins: Surprisingly Affordable

Recent analyses have challenged the widely held belief that joins are computationally expensive in data systems. Testing demonstrated that dimensional data models using joins often require less CPU during read operations than pre-joined, flattened tables. This suggests that denormalizing data to eliminate joins may not always lead to cost savings.

Learn Claude Code by doing, not reading

Claude Code is a free, browser-based platform designed to teach users how to effectively utilize the Claude AI through hands-on exercises and simulations. The platform offers interactive modules, project configuration tools, and a terminal sandbox, requiring no installation or API key. Users can learn from beginner to advanced levels with quizzes and helpful reference materials.

Turning a MacBook into a touchscreen with $1 of hardware (2018)

A team developed “Project Sistine,” a low-cost system that retrofits touchscreen functionality to a MacBook using a small mirror and computer vision. The system, costing around $1 in materials, utilizes the MacBook’s webcam to track finger movements via reflections. Currently, it translates touch and hover actions into mouse events, demonstrating a potential for affordable touchscreen upgrades.

Implantable ’living pharmacy’ produces multiple drugs inside the body

Scientists have created a miniature, implantable “living pharmacy” called HOBIT that utilizes engineered cells to continuously produce multiple drugs, such as anti-HIV antibodies and diabetes treatments. The device incorporates oxygen-producing technology to keep cells alive and shielded from the immune system, enabling long-term drug delivery. This innovation has the potential to simplify treatment for chronic conditions by reducing the need for frequent medication.

Mercury’s Haskell Engineering at Scale

Fintech company Mercury has built a remarkably reliable system processing billions of transactions using a 2 million-line Haskell codebase, even with a team largely unfamiliar with the language. The system’s stability is attributed to Haskell’s ability to encapsulate operational knowledge and enforce safety, allowing it to withstand rapid growth and crises. Mercury’s experience emphasizes the importance of balancing Haskell’s technical advantages with practical operational considerations for maintaining large-scale systems.

Take better notes, by hand

A new note-taking system combines digital tools with traditional paper notebooks to improve research and reading comprehension. The method emphasizes hand-written notes, incorporating techniques like dating entries and creating indexes to overcome limitations and facilitate recall. Ultimately, the system aims to balance the benefits of both digital and analog approaches for deeper engagement with the material.

OCR for construction documents does not work, we fixed it

AnchorGrid has developed a new API and machine learning models to accurately analyze construction documents. The platform detects fixtures, extracts schedules, and provides document analysis capabilities. Developers can learn more and access the API through AnchorGrid’s website.

Marginalia Search is developing a new NSFW filter for its search engine, primarily intended for API users. The filter will utilize a fast, single-layer neural network and employs large language models to automatically label training data, overcoming limitations of previous approaches like Fasttext. This innovative method balances performance constraints with the need for accurate content classification.

Coasts – Containerized Hosts for Agents

Coasts is a new tool that allows developers to run multiple, isolated Docker-compose runtimes across different Git worktrees on a single computer. It essentially creates “containerized hosts” that act like development containers without the IDE, enabling isolated testing and development workflows for agents. Users configure Coasts through a Coastfile and can dynamically manage ports and worktree assignments.

User Mode Linux

User Mode Linux (UML) is a modified version of the Linux kernel that runs as a regular process within a standard Linux system. This allows for safer kernel experimentation, debugging, and testing without risking the host system, and can be run by non-root users. Setting up UML involves compiling a customized kernel and modules using a specific build flag (“ARCH=um”).

Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman Equation: Reinforcement Learning and Diffusion Models

A 1952 paper by Richard Bellman, foundational to reinforcement learning, has been found to be mathematically equivalent to the 19th-century Hamilton-Jacobi equation from physics. This surprising connection links continuous-time reinforcement learning, diffusion models, and optimal transport, revealing a deeper structure within these fields. By extending dynamic programming to continuous time, researchers can now view these concepts through the lens of a partial differential equation.

The Alphabetical Clock

A new clock, dubbed “The Alphabetical Clock,” displays time in an unconventional, alphabetical format. It offers two modes: one with separate hands sorted by the spelling of hours, minutes, and seconds, and another showing all possible times alphabetically with a single needle. The design was inspired by a post on Mastodon.

I use excalidraw to manage my diagrams for my blog

The author streamlined their blog image creation process by automating the export of graphics from Excalidraw. They created a GitHub Action that identifies and exports SVG images with specific prefixes for both light and dark modes. This automation significantly reduces the time spent on image management and improves the workflow for their blog posts.

15 years, one server, 8GB RAM and 500k users – how Webminal refuses to die

Webminal.org, a Linux terminal platform, has been running continuously since 2011 on a single server with limited resources, serving hundreds of thousands of users. Recently redesigned, the platform now includes “Root Labs” offering full root access for system administration practice and utilizes a surprisingly outdated, yet functional, tech stack. Despite overcoming significant infrastructure challenges, including a datacenter fire, Webminal continues to operate reliably.

The curious case of retro demo scene graphics

Early demo scene graphics often involved copying or adapting artwork from external sources like fantasy and science fiction artists. This practice was generally accepted as a demonstration of skill in pixel art conversion techniques rather than a copyright violation. The focus was on the effort and craftsmanship involved in hand-pixelling and optimizing images for early computer systems.

HD Audio Driver for Windows 98SE / Me

A new alpha-stage driver enables HD Audio functionality on Windows 98 SE and ME for Intel chipsets post-915. The driver is experimental, offering limited playback support and potential instability or hardware compatibility issues. Users of other Windows versions or those seeking reliability are advised to explore alternative audio solutions.

VHDL Standardisation Advances

VHDL guarantees deterministic behavior in hardware designs through a delta cycle algorithm that separates signal updates from process evaluations, a feature absent in Verilog. This distinction arises from VHDL’s exclusive use of signals for communication, unlike Verilog’s “regs” which combine computation and communication, potentially leading to non-deterministic results. Consequently, VHDL provides a more predictable and consistent design environment.

How We Rewrote 130K Lines from React to Svelte in Two Weeks

Strawberry browser’s frontend was rapidly rewritten from React to Svelte using coding agents, completing the 130,000-line migration in just two weeks. This shift significantly improved browser speed and responsiveness by a factor of two, addressing performance limitations caused by React’s virtual DOM and constant updates from AI agents. Strict coding rules guided the agents to ensure a high-quality and performant transition to Svelte.

New Apple Silicon M4 and M5 HiDPI Limitation on 4K External Displays

Newer Apple Silicon Macs, starting with the M4 chip, are limiting external display resolution to 3360x1890, preventing full 4K (3840x2160) HiDPI support. This software limitation, despite the hardware’s capabilities, forces users to choose between blurry 4K resolution or reduced screen space with sharp text. Attempts to bypass this restriction have been unsuccessful, suggesting a deeper issue within macOS.

Waymo, Austin Schools Struggled to Train Robotaxis to Stop

Waymo’s self-driving vehicles in Austin repeatedly failed to stop for school buses, leading to a federal recall and ongoing safety concerns. Emails and reports reveal months of struggle between Waymo and the Austin Independent School District to train the robotaxis to comply with traffic laws. The incidents highlight potential limitations in how self-driving car software learns and adapts to real-world situations.

Rust’s next-generation trait solver

Rust’s compiler team is finalizing a significant rewrite of the trait solver, a component that resolves trait method calls. The update aims to simplify future development, address subtle bugs, and improve compilation speed, particularly when dealing with complex scenarios like generics. The new solver will handle chained trait implementations and generic types more effectively than the current system.

Running a Plan 9 network on OpenBSD

This guide details how to recreate a functional Plan 9 network on an OpenBSD machine using readily available tools like QEMU. It involves configuring distinct servers for authentication, file storage, and program execution, each with separate IP addresses. This setup allows users to experience Plan 9’s distributed architecture and facilitates easier administration compared to running all services on a single machine.

Move GitHub Private Repos to Google Drive in Minutes

Users facing issues with GitHub’s reliability can now host private Git repositories on cloud storage like Google Drive. This method utilizes a “local-remote” architecture and optimizes Git’s storage by consolidating objects into packfiles, improving sync speed and preventing conflicts. The process allows users to continue using familiar Git commands for pushing and pulling.

Fast and Gorgeous Erosion Filter

A new technique creates the visual appearance of erosion on virtual landscapes quickly and efficiently. This “erosion filter” uses a specialized noise function, building on previous work, to generate realistic branching gullies and ridges without complex simulations. The method is GPU-friendly and allows for easy application to existing landscape designs.

IHP v1.5 has been released

The IHP web framework has released version 1.5.0, a major update featuring a complete database layer rewrite for improved performance and a modular architecture with over 15 standalone packages. This release includes significant speed enhancements, compile-time type-checked SQL, and pipeline queries to streamline web application development. The upgrade aims to provide a more robust and developer-friendly experience for building Haskell-based web applications.

NumPy as Synth Engine

A new music generation system uses Python and the NumPy library to create instrument sounds entirely through mathematical algorithms, without relying on pre-recorded audio samples. The system employs techniques like the Karplus-Strong method and custom synthesis to simulate instruments such as sitars, tablas, and guitars using sine waves, noise, and filters. This demonstrates the potential for creating complex and realistic instrument sounds programmatically.

How would you design parallel grep for huge JSONL files?

The article discusses the challenge of efficiently searching very large JSONL files. The author is exploring a parallel “grep-style” approach, treating the files as line-delimited text for processing. They are seeking advice on the design and implementation of such a system.

A fast, compact, immutable map from strings to uint64 values in Go

A new Go library called constmap provides a fast and memory-efficient, immutable map from strings to uint64 values. It utilizes a binary fuse filter for quick lookups with minimal memory overhead and is ideal for scenarios with a known set of keys. The library also offers serialization capabilities to save and load the map for persistence.

GitHub Monaspace Case Study

GitHub and Lettermatic collaborated to create Monaspace, a free, open-source superfamily of five interchangeable typefaces designed specifically for code editors. The fonts feature over 6,000 glyphs, support over 200 languages, and offer extensive personalization through variable axes. Utilizing a new technology called Texture Healing, Monaspace aims to improve legibility within a monospace format.

Analyzing round trip query latency

Database timeouts can occur even when the database itself is performing well, often due to bottlenecks in external infrastructure like load balancers or connection pools. Analyzing round trip query latency by correlating application and database monitoring data helps pinpoint the specific source of slowdowns. Separating database time from overall round trip time allows teams to prioritize optimization efforts, focusing on either the database or upstream components.

I Made a Terminal Pager

A developer has created “lore,” a new terminal pager designed to improve interactive text navigation within terminal applications. Built using a reusable viewport component in Go, lore provides an alternative to standard pagers like less. The tool aims to offer enhanced functionality for viewing and navigating large text blocks such as logs and manifests.

The life of a file (2017)

The provided article, titled “The life of a file (2017),” appears to be a standard informational page with links to YouTube resources. It includes sections about press, copyright, and developer information, alongside legal policies and safety guidelines. The page also displays a copyright notice indicating Google LLC ownership through 2026.

What are you doing this week?

This article poses a simple question to readers: what are their plans for the week? It encourages engagement by inviting people to share their activities, emphasizing that it’s perfectly acceptable to have no plans at all. The piece serves as an informal prompt for audience interaction.

Category Theory Illustrated - Types

The article introduces type theory as a foundational mathematical language, offering an alternative to both set theory and category theory. It explains that set theory, while initially simple to understand, faces limitations demonstrated by Russell’s paradox – a contradiction arising from sets potentially containing themselves. The development of type theory was motivated by the need to resolve these paradoxes and create more robust mathematical formalisms.

Three Little Rust Crates

A developer has released three new Rust crates – name-to-handle-at, pidfd-util, and listen-fds – to address a security vulnerability in systemd socket activation. These crates utilize process file descriptors (pidfds) to avoid process ID wrap-around issues and enhance the security of file descriptor passing between processes. The development is part of a larger effort to improve the integration of Varlink services.

Fully Local Code Embeds

A developer has created “local-iframe,” a framework-agnostic solution for embedding interactive code sandboxes directly within HTML pages. The system utilizes a web component and HTML <template> element to avoid loading content during initial page load, simplifying development and allowing for customizable rendering. This approach eliminates reliance on external services and provides a clear view of the final document structure.

PGConf.EU 2025 Establishing the PostgreSQL standard What is Postgres compatible

The PostgreSQL community is developing a framework to define “PostgreSQL compatible” systems, moving beyond a simple pass/fail certification. This framework will utilize a weighted checklist to accommodate variations, especially in managed environments, while ensuring core functionality and consistent behavior. The goal is to encourage innovation while maintaining a baseline level of compatibility for applications and tools.

Okapi, or “What if ripgrep Could Edit?”

A researcher created a tool called Okapi to efficiently correct OCR errors in a large collection of digitized US Government employee data. Built on ripgrep, Okapi allows for bulk identification and correction of recurring errors, like misinterpretations of “III,” directly within a text editor. The tool displays matching lines and optionally the original images to aid in accurate edits.

UVWATAUAVAWH, The Pushy String

The string “UVWATAUAVAWH” is commonly found in Windows operating system files, appearing as a function prologue sequence similar to 64-bit code. Security researchers believe its prevalence is likely due to a typical function setup pattern, not a hidden message or malicious code. Numerous variations of the string also appear throughout system files.

15 Years of Forking (Waterfox)

Waterfox, a Firefox fork initially created by a teenager, is celebrating its 15th anniversary and boasts over 1 million monthly active users and 25 million lifetime downloads. The browser has partnered with Ecosia to plant over 350,000 trees and is committed to privacy, although it currently faces economic challenges. Waterfox plans to soon integrate a native content blocker.

The Steam Controller D0ggle Adventure

The author attempted to revisit Diablo II using their Steam Controller but found the device’s dongle was broken, exposing its internal circuit board. Repair efforts were complicated by the dongle’s design and the Steam Controller’s discontinued status, requiring a costly search for a replacement. Ultimately, the author had to resort to using a Nintendo Switch Pro controller to continue playing.

🌍 Society & Policy

FCC says it’s making it easier for US telcos to ditch legacy lines

The FCC has implemented new rules to accelerate the retirement of outdated copper infrastructure for US telecommunications companies, aiming to facilitate the rollout of modern networks. These changes streamline approval processes and override some state regulations, reducing requirements for service replacement testing. Critics are concerned the move could negatively impact rural communities and vulnerable populations reliant on traditional phone services.

Google is to journalism what Vikings were to monks. Now their man will run the BBC

Matt Brittin, a former Google executive, has been appointed the BBC’s Director-General designate, sparking concerns about his lack of media experience. His appointment is believed to be a strategic move to secure the BBC’s Royal Charter renewal amidst political pressure and threats to its impartiality. The selection highlights the broadcaster’s complex relationship with powerful tech companies like Google, which has been criticized for its impact on journalism.

DXC staff to strike in Australia after some go without pay rise for five years

DXC staff in Australia are planning a strike this week after failing to reach a pay agreement, with some employees reportedly forgoing raises for five years. Forrester anticipates potential slowdowns in Asia-Pacific IT spending due to factors including the ongoing Iran war and currency fluctuations. Several Japanese companies, including Toshiba and Mitsubishi, are exploring a merger of their semiconductor businesses to improve global competitiveness.

A Nursing Home Owner Got a Pardon. The Families of His Patients Got Nothing

Nursing home operator Joseph Schwartz was recently pardoned by President Trump after pleading guilty to a $39 million payroll tax fraud, despite owing millions in damages to families of patients harmed by his cost-cutting measures. This pardon follows a pattern of Trump granting clemency to individuals convicted of crimes related to nursing home operations. Affected families have been unable to collect on awarded judgments due to Schwartz’s asset distribution.

US Army paratroopers arrive in Middle East as buildup intensifies

Thousands of U.S. Army paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division have begun deploying to the Middle East, joining existing reinforcements. This build-up aims to expand potential options for future operations in the region, though a deployment into Iran has not been decided. The move follows discussions within the Trump administration regarding various military actions involving Iran.

Zelensky says allies asked him to scale back attacks on Russian energy

Western allies have reportedly requested that Ukraine scale back its attacks on Russian energy infrastructure. President Zelensky countered that Ukraine will only halt these strikes if Russia ceases targeting Ukrainian energy facilities. The requests come as Ukraine faces fuel shortages due to ongoing Russian attacks on its own energy system and seeks additional supplies from Gulf nations.

William Blake, Remote by the Sea

In 1800, poet William Blake and his wife Catherine relocated from London to the Sussex village of Felpham at the invitation of William Hayley. The move, prompted by a desire for a career change and a seaside escape, reflected a growing trend of Londoners embracing leisure and nature. Blake’s arrival was unexpected for the villagers and marked a shift in England’s focus from foreign defense to domestic pursuits.

Spain shuts airspace for US planes involved in Iran war

Iran executed two men for their membership in the People’s Mujahedin of Iran (MEK), a banned opposition group, after Supreme Court approval. Human rights organizations condemn the executions as politically motivated, citing alleged torture and unfair trials, and worry about a potential increase in capital punishment to suppress dissent amid regional conflict. This continues Iran’s high rate of executions, ranking second globally after China.

New Washington state law bans noncompete agreements

Washington state has banned noncompete agreements statewide, a law taking effect June 30, 2027. This new legislation expands upon a 2019 law and prohibits employers from restricting workers’ ability to join or start competing businesses. Employers must notify current and former employees about the change, while clarifying rules surrounding related nonsolicitation agreements.

Senators want datacenters to come clean on power consumption

US Senators Warren and Hawley are urging the Energy Information Administration to require annual reporting of energy consumption data from datacenters and other large energy users. They argue this data is necessary to hold companies accountable for rising utility costs and ensure they adhere to voluntary pledges regarding energy usage. The senators believe public access to this information is crucial for effective oversight and grid planning.

Israel Knesset set to vote on death penalty law for Palestinians convicted of

Israel’s parliament passed a law allowing the death penalty by hanging for Palestinians convicted in military courts of deadly attacks, fulfilling a pledge by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government. The legislation, which applies primarily to Palestinians and lacks clemency options, has drawn international criticism and condemnation as discriminatory. Critics argue the law violates international law and is a form of institutionalized discrimination.

Craig Newmark: Billionaires, Stop Whining About the Giving Pledge

Craigslist founder Craig Newmark, unexpectedly becoming wealthy from the site’s success, is now donating most of his fortune to those in need. He prioritized keeping Craigslist accessible and user-friendly by rejecting lucrative offers and advertising. Newmark believes distributing large sums of money benefits society more than hoarding it.

Spain closes airspace to aircraft involved in Iran war

Spain has denied airspace and base access to aircraft directly involved in the recent U.S.-Israel operation against Iran, deeming the action illegal. While barring participation in the strikes, Spain continues to support logistical operations for U.S. forces and is facilitating the transit of bombers through the Strait of Gibraltar. Despite this ban, Spain maintains its commitments to NATO and the EU.

How Reverse Game Theory Could Solve the Housing Shortage

A Maryland farm, Kingsbury Orchard, was preserved from development thanks to a program called Transferable Development Rights (TDRs). TDRs create a market where landowners can sell development rights while retaining their farmland, providing farmers with funds and allowing developers to build denser housing in designated areas. This innovative approach has protected over 70,000 acres of farmland near Washington, D.C.

Corn tortillas in California now must contain folic acid

California has mandated folic acid be added to corn masa flour used in tortillas to reduce neural tube defects, which disproportionately affect Hispanic infants. This law follows decades of folic acid fortification in other grain products and is prompting consideration of similar legislation in several other states. The initiative aims to improve public health and expand access to this essential nutrient nationwide.

Philly courts will ban all smart eyeglasses starting next week

Philadelphia courts will ban all smart eyeglasses starting next week to prevent unauthorized recording and potential intimidation of witnesses and jurors. The ban, implemented by the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania, applies to anyone entering court buildings and follows a growing trend among court systems nationwide. Violators could face penalties including being barred from entry or criminal contempt charges.

How the Navajo Nation is tackling diabetes with a return to its ancestral diet

The Navajo Nation is implementing a program to combat high rates of Type 2 diabetes by embracing a return to traditional, plant-based Indigenous foods and culture. This initiative, spurred by former President Jonathan Nez’s personal health journey, aims to reverse the effects of historical forced assimilation and loss of traditional food systems. The Diné Power Plate dietary guidelines and community education programs are showing promise in improving health outcomes.

Something unexpected: Sunbathers live longer (2016)

A Swedish study of nearly 30,000 women found that those with more sun exposure lived longer and had fewer heart disease deaths. While cancer deaths were more common in this group, researchers suggest a possible link to vitamin D production, though the effect was small and further research is needed. The study acknowledges that other lifestyle factors may also be contributing to the observed longevity.

Smartphones Blamed for Anxiety, Polarization – With Limits

A growing theory attributes numerous societal problems, like anxiety and political polarization, to the widespread use of smartphones and social media. However, this “Smartphone Theory of Everything” lacks strong evidence, as its negative effects are disproportionately concentrated in English-speaking countries. While studies show limiting phone use can improve focus and mood, a definitive causal link remains complex and requires further investigation.

Google DeepMind Chief Criticizes Trump, ICE Shooting

Google’s chief scientist, Jeff Dean, recently participated in an amicus brief supporting Anthropic’s lawsuit against the Defense Department. This marks a rare instance of a top tech executive publicly commenting on political and legal matters. Dean’s action underscores concerns regarding the government’s use of AI technology.

Schools Re-Evaluate Tech Use Amid Student Screen Time Concerns

Schools in North Carolina, Virginia, Maryland, and Michigan are reconsidering the use of classroom technology like Chromebooks due to concerns about excessive student screen time and distractions. Following a similar move by McPherson Middle School in Kansas, some schools are restricting laptop access and encouraging more traditional learning methods. This trend reflects a broader “Chromebook remorse” as educators re-evaluate the role of technology in education.

Defense Startups Eye US Move Amid UK Spending Delays

Defense technology startups in the UK are contemplating relocating to the US due to significant delays in government contract funding. Executives are reportedly characterizing the UK defense sector as being at a “standstill” as a result of these funding issues. This potential exodus could negatively impact the UK’s defense technology industry.