Whistle by Blackpink mixed with Fearless by LE SSERAFIM
For this audio mix, I mixed the music at the start of the music and also at the chorus. At the end, I connected the two songs and ended with Fearless.
Love Dive by IVE mixed with Eleven by IVE
Both of these songs are by IVE, a K-pop group. As their style is similar, I decided to mix them. At the start, both songs are played, and after Love Dive’s chorus, Eleven is played.
Not Shy by Itzy mixed with Pink Venom by Blackpink and Antifragile by LE SSERAFIM
This is a mix of three songs, I decided to start with Not Shy, and during the second chorus, I mixed in Pink Venom 1.15x speed version to match with the other song’s speeds.
The video ” Apple Robots?! We Really Doing This? + iPhone 16/16 Pro & iPad Pro” informs us about Apple robots and the new updates for the iPhone 16, iPhone Pro, and the new iPad Pro. Every year when Apple releases new products, there are always rumors that spread. Last year, I saw this news about the iPhone 15 pro, which talked about how the Phone would feature a folding screen, just like Samsung’s design for their Galaxy flip phones. However, it was just a rumor and was not true. In the video, Brian talks about how Apple will release a robot that follows you around. Additionally, it’s possible that Apple might extend this idea and design humanoid robots that can help with chores, which I think if they were to design something like this, it would be far from today. In fact, I think Apple releasing robots such products is not very surprising, after all, they have made the Vision Pro, and sweeping robots, and monitoring robots have also appeared on the market. After Brian talks about robots, he updates us on the new features of the iPad 16. Which includes a new M3 chip, OLED displays, a thinner body, and also MagSafe wireless charging. Furthermore, the iPhone 16 reports say that the phone will feature the A18 chip to improve its performance. Out of all these reported updates, I’m most looking forward to a new style of the phone’s appearance. Like Brian said in the video, the 16 Pro will probably have a brighter surface than the 15 Pro as it will be more polished and Apple might use a material similar to stainless steel used previously.
The video “Apple’s Foldable MacBook Is Happening! What We Know” updates us about some things Apple is creating including an all-screen MacBook that is foldable, a new Apple Pencil, seven new emojis, and the news on the upcoming WWDC 24 event. In my opinion, an all-screen MacBook is sort of just an iPad but with two screens. I think the current computer keyboard is very comfortable to use, including the texture and sound. If the keyboard updates into a touch screen, I am not sure about that because if the computer is used for a long time, the screen will turn hot, which means the keyboard may also be as hot as the screen. Which I don’t think will give us the best experience. Furthermore, I am hoping to see these updates on emojis, especially the tired and splatter emojis as they look really cute. However, we won’t be seeing these updates too soon as it will probably be near iOS 18.4. Overall, I am really excited to see the Emoji updates and hope to see more details about Apple’s Foldable Macbook.
Other projects
This was a poster created for a math survey project, where we asked students which ways the schools can improve.
For this project, I created a scene of spring. I used multiple shapes to create the flower and leaf. Also, I blurred out everything at the end including the butterflies, flowers, and background.
Kanye West: Gold Digger x Kendrick Lamar: King Kunta
SpongeBob: Theme song x Miss the Rage
Kanye West: Bound 2 x Amour Plastique
Original sound tracks used:
Amour Plastique (Napoleon song) – no vocals
Kanye West: Bound 2 – vocals only
Kanye West: Gold Digger – vocals only
Kendrick Lamer: King Kunta – no vocals
SpongeBob Theme song – vocals only
Miss The Rage – no vocals
Commentaries on Technology by Alan Li
GPT-4: Advancements in AI
GPT-4, created by Openai is the latest installment of the company’s AI models. GPT-4 is a multimodal model, able to respond in real time to any source of speech, text or even visuals. It is the most advanced model, having been in production for the past two years and being a result of countless tests and trials conducted by the Openai team. GPT-4 was created with in the intention of simulating realistic human and computer interactions with the aid of AI. The model is capable of responding as fast as 232 milliseconds with an average speed of 320 milliseconds. The model is much more capable of handling more complex subjects and interactions, even having passed a simulated Bar exam with a score around the top 10% of participants. I believe what GPT-4 represents is the rapid growth in AI technology in the world today which I believe to be something positive, as it been shown how AI can help us better gain and process information.
The Iphone 16: What to expect?
With the release of the newest, iPhone 15 last September, many are wondering what Apple has in store next?
Although Apple has not said anything officially, many sources speculate that the phone is set to release this September. Alongside it’s release, it seems that Apple has been designing an entirely new chip to be used in the iPhone 16, expected to improve the performance and efficiency. Alongside the new chip, Apple also plans on adding an action button to all iPhone 16 models as seen on the iPhone 15 pro is said to feature a photo button, capable of taking videos and photos. Finally, leaked images have shown of more a vertical camera design present on the iPhone 16, leaving behind the more diagonal design we’re used to seeing. With that being said, I have high hopes for the newest line iPhones, and can only hope that these changes are official.
This video, “This Could Make AI actually Useful” explains many of the new updates in the AI network. It starts with explaining some updates on AI platforms like how AI developers are trying to change their bots so that it can benefit normal citizens more instead of only benefiting other developers and CS majors. Chat GPT has now created a Chat GPT Edu discount/program to encourage universities and schools to use it more. GPT has also signed with Apple making it so that the AI tech will be included into the next iPhone. Tiktok is allegedly working on an algorithm specifically made for US users to help prevent it from being banned in the states. Google addressed the leak explaining how their search algorithm works and also the blunders that the Google AI has made when advising the public. Spotify has offered refunds to those who have purchased “Car Thing” as the product was quickly rendered unusable. Google also accidentally deleted a company’s account who managed around $135 billion Australian. “Showrunner ” the newly made Netflix show was announced to be completely AI generated. Many shows are following suit and even making their own episodes of pre-existing shows using AI. Another user on Bilibili is going viral for the tank simulator he made using AI. I believe that these are all very interesting uses for AI and that the technology society is definitely evolving at a very fast rate.
The video, “Apple’s Foldable MacBook Is Happening! What We Know” tells us a little bit about what new updates Apple is adding to their technology including a foldable MacBook with minimized creases, Apple Vision Pro updates, WWDC 24 event, new iPad updates, and 7 new emojis. I believe that some of these new updates are a beneficial addition yet others to be more of a want rather than a need. I feel as though the foldable MacBook is in a way sort of redundant for regular technology users however could be beneficial to digital artists who use larger and more portable drawing devices. I believe that the Apple Vision Pro updates with the new Marvel game is mainly focused on drawing more Vision Pro users as at the moment, I don’t believe many people use it because of its high price. I think that the new iPad updates are very interesting and I am intrigued to see what will happen with them in the future.
Tyreek Hill, widely regarded as one of the most electrifying players in the NFL, has established a significant legacy both on and off the field. Here’s an overview of the impact he has had in the world of professional football and beyond:
On-Field Excellence: Tyreek Hill is known for his incredible speed and agility, which have made him one of the most dynamic wide receivers in the league. His ability to change the course of a game with a single play has been a hallmark of his career, earning him multiple Pro Bowl selections and helping his teams to crucial victories.
Record-Breaking Performances: Throughout his career, Hill has set and broken several records, showcasing his exceptional talent and work ethic. His speed, measured in both his 40-yard dash time and in-game sprints, has often been a topic of discussion among fans and analysts.
Community Engagement: Off the field, Hill has engaged in various community service activities, contributing to his community and building a legacy beyond his athletic achievements. Many athletes are remembered not just for their sports prowess but also for their philanthropic and community efforts.
Controversy and Redemption: It’s important to note that Hill’s career has not been without controversy, including off-field issues that have sparked discussions about conduct, discipline, and redemption in professional sports. How these aspects are weighed against his on-field achievements contributes to the complexity of his legacy.
Influence on the Game: Hill’s style of play has influenced how teams strategize against speedsters and versatile wide receivers. His ability to impact various facets of the game, from receiving to special teams, has made him a model for younger players and a focal point for defensive coordinators.
Continued Impact: Whether it’s through mentoring younger players, his ongoing performances, or his life after football, Hill’s influence is expected to persist in the NFL community and beyond.
Tyreek Hill’s legacy is multifaceted, blending exceptional athletic talent with community involvement and personal challenges. As his career progresses, this legacy is likely to evolve, reflecting his ongoing contributions to the sport and society.
Audio mixes
miss the Rage x for the first time (used the acapella for Miss the Rage and used the beat from for the first time)
Coincidence x drill beat (used a studio acapella and a drill-type beat in the same BPM)
Magnolia x Need 2 (used raw vocals and Need 2 instrumental)
My second king jaylen waddle
Jaylen Waddle is a football virtuoso whose presence on the gridiron is akin to a maestro conducting a symphony. With an electrifying blend of agility, speed, and precision, Waddle has swiftly ascended to the upper echelons of the NFL, captivating audiences and commanding respect from peers and pundits alike.
A Symphony of Speed and Agility: On the field, Waddle’s movements are a spectacle of athletic artistry. His acceleration is breathtaking, his cuts are razor-sharp, and his ability to change direction is almost ethereal. Each time he touches the ball, the air thickens with anticipation, as spectators and opponents alike wait to see his next masterstroke.
The Art of Reception: Waddle is not just a player; he’s a poet in motion. His receptions are a blend of meticulous technique and instinctual flair. Whether it’s a deep route slicing through the defense or a short pass turned into a significant gain, Waddle’s performances are a testament to his profound understanding of the game and his role within it.
Impact Beyond the Numbers: While statistics may quantify his contributions, they hardly encapsulate the full extent of Waddle’s influence on the field. His ability to draw multiple defenders not only showcases his prowess but also opens opportunities for his teammates, elevating the team’s overall performance.
A Rising Icon: Off the field, Waddle’s charisma and dedication to his craft resonate with fans and aspiring athletes. His journey to the NFL, marked by perseverance and passion, serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that excellence is not just about natural talent but also about the relentless pursuit of greatness.
The Future Shines Bright: As Waddle continues to carve his path in the NFL, his legacy is still in the making. But if his current trajectory is any indication, he is well on his way to becoming not just one of the greats of his era but a timeless figure in the annals of football history.
In essence, Jaylen Waddle is not just a player; he’s a phenomenon, a force that brings excitement, artistry, and an unparalleled level of excellence to the game of football.
Finally, the most glorious of them all
You are my sunshine My only sunshine You make me happy When skies are gray You’ll never know, dear How much I love you Please don’t take My sunshine away The other night, dear As I lay sleeping I dreamed I held you In my arms When I awoke, dear I was mistaken So I hung my head and cried You are my sunshine My only sunshine You make me happy When skies are gray You’ll never know, dear How much I love you Please don’t take My sunshine away
Elaboration
LeBron James is often hailed as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, and for good reason. His career is a testament to not only his physical prowess but also his mental acuity, leadership, and commitment to excellence. Here’s a look at the many facets that make LeBron’s journey in the NBA truly remarkable.
Physical Virtuosity:
LeBron’s physical attributes are nothing short of extraordinary. His combination of size, strength, speed, and agility is unparalleled, allowing him to excel in virtually every aspect of the game. Whether it’s soaring for a slam dunk, barreling through defenses, or making a chase-down block, LeBron consistently showcases his athletic dominance.
Basketball IQ:
Beyond his physical talents, LeBron’s understanding of the game is exceptional. His ability to read the court, anticipate plays, and make split-second decisions is akin to a grandmaster in chess. This basketball intelligence has allowed him to excel in various roles, whether as a scorer, playmaker, or defender.
Leadership and Versatility:
LeBron’s impact extends beyond his personal stats. His leadership on and off the court has been instrumental in the success of his teams. He’s known for elevating the play of his teammates, fostering a winning culture, and stepping up in crucial moments. His versatility allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, whether his team needs scoring, playmaking, or defensive prowess.
Longevity and Consistency:
What’s perhaps most astounding about LeBron is his longevity at the elite level of the NBA. Over the years, he has adapted his game to stay at the pinnacle of performance, showcasing an incredible level of consistency and dedication to his craft.
Off-Court Influence:
Beyond the hardwood, LeBron’s influence is profound. His philanthropic efforts, business acumen, and activism have made him a role model and a significant figure in cultural discussions. His commitment to education, exemplified by the I PROMISE School, shows a dedication to giving back and making a tangible difference in communities.
A Living Legend:
LeBron’s career is still ongoing, and every game adds to his legacy. In a sport that has seen many greats, his story stands out for its brilliance, resilience, and impact. As fans and spectators, witnessing his journey is like watching history in motion—a story of an athlete who transcends the sport and embodies the spirit of excellence.
In sum, LeBron James is not just an amazing basketball player; he’s a phenomenon that encapsulates the best of sportsmanship, leadership, and community engagement, making his story a compelling and inspirational chapter in the annals of sports history.
2 commentaries on technology news
With AI, Anyone Can Be a Coder Now
Thoughts
The Fusion of Creativity and Technology: A New Era of Software Development
In his compelling talk, Thomas Dohmke, CEO of GitHub, draws a vivid parallel between his enduring passion for LEGO and the evolving landscape of software development. Dohmke’s reflection on his childhood love for LEGO and its role in fostering creativity sets the stage for a deeper exploration of how modern technological advancements, particularly AI-driven tools, are revolutionizing the way we approach coding.
LEGO: The Gateway to Creativity
LEGO, with its simple yet versatile system of interlocking bricks, has long been a symbol of creativity and innovation. For Dohmke, LEGO represented a world where imagination had no boundaries, where complex structures could be built with ease and enthusiasm. This childhood fascination with LEGO not only nurtured his creative instincts but also laid the foundation for his professional journey.
In the same way that LEGO allows for the construction of intricate models from simple pieces, Dohmke sees the potential for software development to become more accessible and intuitive. The idea is to lower the barriers to entry, making it possible for anyone to engage in coding and bring their ideas to life.
GitHub and the Evolution of Coding
As the CEO of GitHub, Dohmke is at the forefront of a movement to make software development more inclusive and user-friendly. GitHub, often referred to as the home of coding, is a platform where developers from around the world collaborate, share code, and build projects together. However, despite its collaborative nature, traditional coding remains a daunting task for many, often requiring extensive knowledge and experience.
This began to change with the advent of AI, specifically with the introduction of OpenAI’s GPT-3 in late 2020. GPT-3, a large language model, demonstrated remarkable abilities to understand and generate human-like text, solving complex programming exercises with ease. This breakthrough led to the creation of GitHub Copilot, an AI-powered tool designed to assist developers by predicting and completing code.
The Birth of GitHub Copilot
GitHub Copilot represents a significant leap forward in making coding more accessible. It acts as an AI assistant that helps developers by suggesting code snippets and completing functions, thereby streamlining the coding process. This tool, now widely adopted, has transformed the way developers work, allowing them to maintain their creative flow without being bogged down by repetitive tasks.
The true revolutionary potential of Copilot lies in its ability to understand and interpret natural language. This means that individuals no longer need to be proficient in complex programming languages to create software. By simply providing instructions in plain English, users can generate functional code, much like building with LEGO bricks.
Copilot Workspace: A New Frontier
The evolution of AI tools at GitHub did not stop with Copilot. Dohmke introduces Copilot Workspace, a new product that further simplifies the process of software development. Copilot Workspace allows users to interact with their projects in natural language, setting tasks and generating code without the need for traditional coding interfaces. This tool analyzes existing files, proposes plans, and writes code, all based on user input in plain language.
This innovation exemplifies the fusion of human creativity and machine efficiency. With Copilot Workspace, the act of building software becomes as intuitive as stacking LEGO bricks. Users can focus on their creative ideas and see them materialize quickly and effortlessly, without the technical hurdles that previously limited their potential.
The Broader Impact: Democratizing Software Development
The implications of these advancements are profound. By lowering the barriers to entry, AI-driven tools like GitHub Copilot and Copilot Workspace democratize software development. Dohmke envisions a future where the number of developers on GitHub could reach one billion, representing a significant portion of the global population. This democratization could lead to a renaissance of human creativity, with people from diverse backgrounds contributing to the world of software development.
Moreover, the ability to code using natural language opens up opportunities for individuals who might not have had access to technical education. A child in Berlin, Mumbai, or Rio can now explore coding without needing a deep understanding of programming languages. This inclusivity fosters a more diverse and innovative developer community, driving progress and creativity on a global scale.
The Future of Human-Machine Collaboration
Dohmke’s vision extends beyond just making coding easier. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining human creativity and decision-making in the development process. While AI tools can handle many tasks, the role of the human developer remains crucial. Developers will continue to be the pilots, guiding the overall direction and design of projects, while AI assists with the technical details.
This collaboration between humans and machines represents a new paradigm in technology. As AI tools become more sophisticated, they will take on more complex tasks, allowing developers to focus on higher-level problem-solving and creative thinking. This synergy will lead to more innovative and efficient solutions, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.
Conclusion
Thomas Dohmke’s reflections on LEGO and the advancements in AI-driven tools at GitHub paint an exciting picture of the future of software development. By making coding as accessible and intuitive as building with LEGO bricks, these innovations have the potential to unleash a wave of creativity and innovation. As we move forward, the fusion of human language and machine capabilities will transform not only the field of software development but also the broader landscape of technology and creativity. The journey from LEGO to GitHub Copilot is just the beginning of a new era where anyone, anywhere, can turn their ideas into reality.
Video 2
Thew new iPad Pro + Procreate
Procreate’s commitment to democratizing art shines through their innovative use of Apple’s latest technology. Founded on the day the iPad was announced, Procreate has consistently pushed the boundaries of digital creativity. The introduction of the Apple Pencil Pro enhances the painting experience with features like barrel roll and Apple Pencil squeeze, allowing artists to change brush size, introduce colors, and access shortcuts seamlessly.
These advancements make digital art more intuitive and immersive. The barrel roll functionality allows for dynamic brush responses, enabling artists to create in ways previously unimaginable. Apple Pencil squeeze enhances workflow efficiency by enabling actions without direct screen interaction, making complex projects easier to navigate.
Procreate Dreams takes these innovations further by integrating powerful animation tools. The performing feature records actions during playback, allowing for real-time object manipulation and rotation. The new iPad Pro’s M4 chip boosts performance, enabling complex effects like Lens Blur for realistic animations. These tools, combined with improved performance, inspire continuous innovation, empowering artists to realize their creative visions with unprecedented precision and ease.
In this video, the presenter spends $20,000 on minimalist tech items to test whether they can truly turn one’s life into a Zen paradise or if they are just overpriced items that do less. Among the items purchased are the HP Spectre fold laptop, the LG easel TV, a 27-inch touchscreen briefcase, an air purifying table, and a minimalist phone called the Light phone 2. The presenter also explores minimalist speakers from Samsung and Bang & Olufsen, a record player called the Wheel, minimalist kitchen gadgets from Balmuda and Xiaomi, and desk toys from Zero Tolerance Machining. The video ends with the presenter testing a minimalist treadmill called the R2 Hot Sail Wa. The presenter questions whether there is such a thing as a minimalist gaming console and discovers the Playdate, a tiny handheld gaming system with custom-made games. The video ends with the presenter concluding that while some minimalist tech items are overpriced, there are certain items that offer true minimalism and can enhance one’s life.
In the YouTube video titled “This is NVIDIA’s new GPU,” the speaker discusses NVIDIA’s latest innovation, the B200 Blackwell GPU, which features 36 chips and is estimated to cost over $3 million. Although this GPU is not intended for home gaming rigs due to its massive power requirements, it introduces technologies such as GPU interconnects that enable multiple GPUs to act as a single super chip, unlocking gaming experiences that will “blow your mind.” The B200 GPU is expected to deliver around 10 petaflops at fp8 sparse and each GPU has 192 GB of HBM3E high-speed memory. NVIDIA also introduced the MGX system, a purely GPU board that can handle 1.44 terabytes of GPU memory and delivers up to 72 PETA flops of FP8 training while drawing nearly 10,000 Watts. The speaker discusses potential applications of these GPUs in the gaming industry, specifically in the area of AI-assisted storytelling, which uses human-written backstories to give characters personality and context-specific information. NVIDIA also offers pre-trained and pre-optimized containerized AI models, called Nims, for those who cannot afford the more expensive systems. The speaker mentions NVIDIA’s new hardware networking products and promotes Backblaze, a cloud backup solution, as a sponsor of the video.
These are my music remixes, first with Jocelyn Diggers, then Trippie Trippie Red Red, and finally Viva la Baby
The Wired article explains how the growing energy demands of Big Tech data centers are putting pressure on power grids and complicating efforts to go green. Companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft run these data centers, which require a lot of electricity due to the rise in cloud computing and AI needs. Even though they’re trying to use more renewable energy, the inconsistent nature of wind and solar power makes it hard to ensure a steady supply.
Overall, while tech companies are working towards using more renewable energy and developing new solutions like load-shifting, the increasing electricity demand from data centers poses challenges for energy infrastructure and environmental goals.
My Thoughts
The growing energy demands of Big Tech data centers highlight a significant and often overlooked challenge in the transition to renewable energy. Companies like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft are heavily investing in cloud computing and AI, leading to a massive increase in electricity consumption. While these tech giants are committed to using more renewable energy, the inherent intermittency of wind and solar power complicates the task of ensuring a consistent and reliable power supply.
Spotify is increasing the prices of its Premium subscription plans for the first time since 2011. The new prices in the U.S. will be $10.99 for an Individual plan, $14.99 for Duo, $16.99 for Family, and $5.99 for Student. This move comes as Spotify continues to invest in its platform and add new features, such as AI-driven tools and expanded audiobook offerings. The price hike is intended to help Spotify maintain its growth and innovation in the evolving audio streaming market.
My Thoughts
I believe Spotify is wrong for doing this, they already charge decent prices and the app is un usable without Premium. With this raise in price, I can see many transferring platforms.
Audio Mixing
Bound 2 x Love Story (Bound 2 lyrics mixed with Love Story beat) I choose these two artists because they are known for not working well together.
Miss the Rage x Viva la Vida (Miss the Rage lyrics mixed with Viva la Vida beat) I used these songs because Viva la Vida is lyrical and melodic song compared to Miss the Rage being a rage song. Mixing them made a funny result.
We Don’t Care x Days Come and go (We Don’t Care lyrics mixed with Days Come and Go beat) I listened to beats for a while to find one that kind of matched up to Kanye’s “We Don’t Care” and this is the best I could find.
Original songs
Bound 2 by Kanye West
Love Story by Taylor Swift
Miss The Rage by Trippie Redd ft. Playboi Carti
Viva La Vida by Coldplay
We Don’t Care by Kanye West
Days Come and Go by Lil Uzi Vert
French Friendship Video (Chosen project 1 – Premier pro)
This is one of my chosen projects. This was created in Premier Pro for a French assignment. The French assignment had me describe my friends, say what they are good at and tell the tale of how we met. This was all in French. In the video, there is audio of me talking about my friends in French over a complication of photos and video of them. This is great because it is using Digital Arts 9 in another class for my benefit where I had an advantage over my peers.
Animal Farm English Poster (Chosen project 2 – Photoshop)
This is my second chosen project, a photoshopped poster of Animal Farm. In the hit novel “Animal Farm” by George Orwell, the ruler pig, Napoleon, uses propaganda to spread his message of his greatness and his hate for Snowball. In the assignment, I was supposed to glorify Napoleon and promote his cause. I did this by adding a “glow” effect and crown to the pig and put him in the middle, making him seem more important. I also added text bubbles to seem like the public was talking good about him. Finally I added extra elements like grass, the windmill and bond text. This is yet another example of using Digital Arts 9 in other courses.
In this video, this youtuber is reviewing the new RayBan Meta Smart Glasses. In this video, he talks about the capabilities of the RayBan glasses and the uses. Some examples are the camera feature, the speaker and microphones and the AI meta feature built into the glasses. Firstly, the camera feature is a camera installed on the side of the glasses that can take photos and videos. This allows for very convenient usage. The lenses for these cameras are average but still very impressive considering it is all fit into a pair of glasses. As for the speaker feature, it allows for really good sound quality as there are two perfectly aimed speakers of the frame of the glasses. For the microphone feature it is actually very good as they are very near your mouth. The downside of these microphones is that they do not have a noise cancelling feature meaning that they are not effective in a crowded environment.
Editorial
Firstly, I found that it was very interesting how we can fit such useful technology in such a small space. During the video, we can see that the glasses look relatively normal. Additionally, I believe that the camera feature can be very useful for just snatching pictures as you don’t need to pull out your mobile device. Next, I think that the audio feature does have a lot of potential, as it doesn’t require any objects inside your ear but the downfall being it leaks more sound. One concern I have for this product is the fact that people do not wear glasses all the time so it is kind of limiting indoors or when it is raining. This brings me to my second concern: weather. It is very unlikely for these glasses to be waterproof meaning they could get damaged in rainy weather. Finally, I wonder if having this technology so close to your head can potentially expose you to radiation or make it more likely for brain tumors.
2nd Tech News Summary
In this video, we see the first person to get a neuralink implanted in his brain. This happened after he was paralyzed in a diving accident rendering him fully paralyzed. The neuralink in his brain connects to his computer and allows him to move the cursor and perform different tasks which he wouldn’t be able to do normally. The person says that it helps him a lot with daily functions that have to do with technology and is also really just surreal.
Editorial
I think that it is very unbelievable that someone had a piece of technology implanted into their brain which allows them to fully control what is happening on their technology. Additionally, I wonder what the process of implanting the brain chip would be and the parts of the brain it needs to connect to in order to receive the impulses. One concern is how safe it is, as technology can heat up and release radio waves and this could be very harmful as the brain is very delicate. Another thing is that I wonder if the company really cares about this guy because it looks like they are just using him as an example for whats to come and I get the feeling they are sort of using him as and advertisement. Finally, I wonder if in the future, if we would be able to use neuralink even if the person doesn’t have a disability, so purely for convenience.
This year, I had many technical issues. Because of this, I was unable to produce a song mix, but I have here a video of Rasputin.
Technology News
Story 1 – Neuralink Thoughts
Summary: Neuralink plants a chip in a human brain, using a robot. This computer chip places a brain-computer interface implant in a carefully selected part of the brain that controls the idea, intention, and want to move; the same part that tells your fingers to type or your legs to walk. Using this, people without use or control of their body can move a cursor around a screen. This is intended to help people with disabilities use technology, and otherwise help humans interact with tech on a different level.
My View: A life of paralysis isn’t one you would wish on anybody. We take our abilities for granted everyday, and we don’t bother thinking about what our life would be like if those gifts were taken away. Most disabled people spend years in deep depression and struggle to adjust to life without some of their abilities.
I believe that this chip is the start of a new unit of tech: one that can use robots and technology to help people who need it. Though this wouldn’t be nearly the same as being able to use your hands to use a laptop, the Neuralink chip can help people access privileges like communication, work, and play. With this chip, those who had their lives taken away can get it back with this helpful technology.
Story 2 – iPad Air 2024 Review
Summary: A new version of the iPad Pro with more advanced features, advertised for everyone; college students, businessmen, and artists. Some main features include a larger screen, better sound quality, new colors, AI, and a better camera that automatically focuses on subjects. The chip is also more advanced, for faster performance, and is advertised as 50% faster performance.
My View: It seems like new versions of Apple Products never stop coming. I can understand if people like artists, or students need the new features, but in my opinion, unless you rely on technology like this for income or other reasons, it’s not necessary. I feel that if you have the money for tech like this, and you need the advanced technology, then it’s a good purchase; but the difference between the iPad Pro and this iPad Air doesn’t seem dramatic enough to be a worldwide piece of technology.
Individual Projects
Project 1
I decided to create a background for my phone. I used shapes to make the daisies, and I learned how to group and lock shapes throughout this creation.
Project 2
I made a cityscape for my second project. Throughout this project, I learned to change the transparency/opacity of shapes and work with gradients. I enjoyed making this mini-project.
LeBron Raymone James was raised by a single mother, Gloria James, in the tough neighbourhoods of Akron. Despite financial struggles and a nomadic lifestyle, LeBron found solace in basketball. His prodigious talent quickly became evident, and by the time he reached St. Vincent-St. Mary High School, LeBron was already a sports sensation. His dominance in high school basketball earned him nationwide attention, and he became the first overall pick in the 2003 NBA Draft straight out of high school.
NBA Career:
LeBron James’ NBA career has been nothing short of legendary. Drafted by the Cleveland Cavaliers, he quickly established himself as a force to be reckoned with. Known for his versatility, athleticism, and basketball IQ, LeBron has played for the Miami Heat and the Cleveland Cavaliers, leading both teams to NBA championships. His move to the Los Angeles Lakers in 2018 marked another chapter in his illustrious career, and he delivered an NBA championship to the Lakers in 2020, solidifying his status as a generational talent.
Basketball Achievements:
LeBron James boasts an impressive list of accolades, including four NBA championships, four NBA Most Valuable Player (MVP) Awards, and numerous All-NBA Team selections. His impact on the game is evident not only in his individual achievements but also in his ability to elevate his teammates and consistently lead his teams to success. LeBron’s influence extends beyond statistics, as he has redefined the role of a basketball player by excelling in various positions and facets of the game.
Off-Court Impact:
LeBron James’ impact transcends the basketball court. He has emerged as a social and cultural icon, using his platform to address societal issues and advocate for change. LeBron is known for his philanthropic efforts, including the LeBron James Family Foundation, which focuses on education and community development. His commitment to empowering underprivileged youth through initiatives like the “I PROMISE School” demonstrates his dedication to making a positive impact beyond basketball.
Athlete Activism:
LeBron James has been at the forefront of athlete activism, using his voice to address racial inequality, social justice, and political issues. His advocacy has sparked conversations on and off the court, highlighting the responsibility athletes bear in influencing societal change. LeBron’s willingness to speak out on controversial topics has cemented his legacy as more than just a basketball player but as a cultural catalyst.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, LeBron James’ journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a basketball icon and influential cultural figure is a testament to his resilience, talent, and commitment to making a positive impact. Beyond the courtside accolades and championship victories, LeBron’s legacy is defined by his philanthropy, activism, and the inspiration he provides to aspiring athletes worldwide. As LeBron continues to make history on and off the basketball court, his impact on the sport and society at large is bound to endure for generations to come.
This is a picture of a moose, with a landscape in the backround, the photo was altered to make the antlers glow, and the backround brightness was lowered to emphasize the green glow.
The photo was originally a side portrait of a woman with a plain backround, a picture of a starry night was inserted to the outline of the womans face/neck to provide a portal effect.
The photo started off as a stylish portrait of a man in a maroon sweater. The outline is a pink pen, with medium thickness. When gaussian blur is applied, it makes the pen have this glow effect.
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Microsoft’s Recall Feature Is Even More Hackable Than You Thought A new discovery that the AI-enabled feature’s historical data can be accessed even by hackers without administrator privileges only contributes to the growing sense that the feature is a “dumpster fire.” Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella speaks on stage Photograph: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images
Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella has hailed the company’s new Recall feature, which stores a history of your computer desktop and makes it available to AI for analysis, as “photographic memory” for your PC. Within the cybersecurity community, meanwhile, the notion of a tool that silently takes a screenshot of your desktop every five seconds has been hailed as a hacker’s dream come true and the worst product idea in recent memory.
Now, security researchers have pointed out that even the one remaining security safeguard meant to protect that feature from exploitation can be trivially defeated.
Since Recall was first announced last month, the cybersecurity world has pointed out that if a hacker can install malicious software to gain a foothold on a target machine with the feature enabled, they can quickly gain access to the user’s entire history stored by the function. The only barrier, it seemed, to that high-resolution view of a victim’s entire life at the keyboard was that accessing Recall’s data required administrator privileges on a user’s machine. That meant malware without that higher-level privilege would trigger a permission pop-up, allowing users to prevent access, and that malware would also likely be blocked by default from accessing the data on most corporate machines.
Then on Wednesday, James Forshaw, a researcher with Google’s Project Zero vulnerability research team, published an update to a blog post pointing out that he had found methods for accessing Recall data without administrator privileges—essentially stripping away even that last fig leaf of protection. “No admin required ;-)” the post concluded.
“Damn,” Forshaw added on Mastodon. “I really thought the Recall database security would at least be, you know, secure.”
Forshaw’s blog post described two different techniques to bypass the administrator privilege requirement, both of which exploit ways of defeating a basic security function in Windows known as access control lists that determine which elements on a computer require which privileges to read and alter. One of Forshaw’s methods exploits an exception to those control lists, temporarily impersonating a program on Windows machines called AIXHost.exe that can access even restricted databases. Another is even simpler: Forshaw points out that because the Recall data stored on a machine is considered to belong to the user, a hacker with the same privileges as the user could simply rewrite the access control lists on a target machine to grant themselves access to the full database.
That second, simpler bypass technique “is just mindblowing, to be honest,” says Alex Hagenah, a cybersecurity strategist and ethical hacker. Hagenah recently built a proof-of-concept hacker tool called TotalRecall designed to show that someone who gained access to a victim’s machine with Recall could immediately siphon out all the user’s history recorded by the feature. Hagenah’s tool, however, still required that hackers find another way to gain administrator privileges through a so-called “privilege escalation” technique before his tool would work.
With Forshaw’s technique, “you don’t need any privilege escalation, no pop-up, nothing,” says Hagenah. “This would make sense to implement in the tool for a bad guy.”
The article by Andy Greenberg in WIRED highlights critical security vulnerabilities in Microsoft’s new Recall feature, which is designed to capture and store screenshots of a user’s desktop every five seconds for AI analysis. Despite CEO Satya Nadella’s promotion of this feature as a “photographic memory” for PCs, the cybersecurity community views it as a significant security risk.
Key points from the article include:
Initial Security Concerns: From the outset, experts warned that if malware could gain a foothold on a machine with Recall enabled, it could access the entire history stored by this feature. Initially, this was mitigated by the requirement for administrator privileges to access the data.
Bypassing Admin Privileges: James Forshaw from Google’s Project Zero revealed methods to bypass the need for admin privileges, effectively removing the last security safeguard. These techniques exploit weaknesses in Windows’ access control lists, allowing hackers to access Recall data without elevated permissions.
Implications of the Vulnerability: The discovery simplifies the exploitation process, making it possible for hackers to retrieve all stored data without triggering security alerts or needing advanced privileges. This revelation has led to increased criticism, with experts like Alex Hagenah and Dave Aitel expressing alarm over the ease with which this data can be compromised.
Industry Reaction: Cybersecurity professionals argue that Microsoft’s security teams should have identified these vulnerabilities before the feature’s release. The consensus is that Recall, as it stands, poses a substantial threat to user privacy and enterprise security.
Microsoft’s Response: At the time of the article, Microsoft had not responded to the findings. The feature is still set to be integrated into compatible Copilot+ PCs by default, raising further concerns about the potential for widespread exploitation.
In summary, the article underscores the urgent need for Microsoft to address these security flaws before fully rolling out the Recall feature. The current vulnerabilities render it a “security dumpster fire,” posing severe risks to both individual and enterprise users.
Jeff Yang’s article on CNN, “Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) is just days away,” captures the high stakes and immense pressure facing Apple as it approaches another pivotal moment in its storied history. As the world waits with bated breath for the latest announcements from the tech giant, it’s clear that Apple stands at a crossroads, grappling with both past glories and present challenges.
Apple’s historical ability to reshape consumer expectations and habits is well-documented. From the iPod to the iPhone, the company has consistently managed to deliver products that not only succeed commercially but also redefine market standards. However, as Yang astutely observes, recent years have seen Apple struggling to recapture that same level of transformative impact. The closure of Project Titan and the lukewarm reception of the Vision Pro underscore the difficulties the company faces in maintaining its innovative edge.
The backdrop to this year’s WWDC is particularly fraught. Apple’s declining sales in China, legal battles over patent infringements, and allegations of anticompetitive practices threaten to overshadow the event. Despite these challenges, Apple’s stock remains robust, buoyed by the continued success of the iPhone and its thriving services business. This paradox of facing significant hurdles while still maintaining market dominance speaks to the complex nature of Apple’s current situation.
Yang highlights the speculative focus on Apple’s potential moves in artificial intelligence. Partnering with OpenAI, Google, or Anthropic would indeed be uncharacteristic for Apple, which typically favors in-house development. The rumored AI features—transcribing voice memos, summarizing chats, retouching photos, and creating custom emojis—while useful, lack the groundbreaking appeal that could redefine the market. This perception of Apple playing catch-up rather than leading innovation is a stark contrast to its previous era under Steve Jobs.
The article poignantly touches on Apple’s struggle to match the cultural impact of its earlier products. The Vision Pro, despite its advanced features, failed to resonate widely due to a lack of clear, compelling use cases that speak directly to consumer needs. This issue was vividly illustrated in the disconnection between the futuristic demo and the practical desires of potential users.
Yang’s comparison to past triumphs, such as the iPod’s simple yet powerful promise of “1,000 songs in your pocket,” underscores the challenge Apple faces: finding that simple, resonant message that captures the imagination of consumers. The iPod revolutionized music consumption not just through technology, but by meeting a fundamental desire in a straightforward way. The Vision Pro, and indeed many of Apple’s recent innovations, have yet to find that clear, compelling narrative.
Yet, it would be premature to count Apple out. The company’s unique position as a lifestyle brand and its history of redefining consumer expectations give it a foundation upon which to build. The mockery of EyeSight, a feature intended to integrate technology more seamlessly into social interactions, reflects the risks inherent in bold innovation. But it also highlights Apple’s willingness to address real user concerns, a trait that has been central to its past successes.
In conclusion, Apple’s upcoming WWDC is more than just another product launch; it’s a test of the company’s ability to navigate an increasingly complex technological landscape and recapture its innovative spirit. The stakes are high, and the path forward is fraught with challenges. But if Apple can channel the bold, user-centric innovation that defined its early years, it may yet reclaim its place as the arbiter of technological and cultural transformation. This WWDC could be a crucial step in that journey, and the world will be watching closely to see if Apple can once again think different.
Apple’s Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) is just days away, and as usual, the technorati are buzzing about what might be unveiled at the company’s annual bleeding-edge technology event: An updated iPhone operating system with a heavy AI focus? New Mac hardware? A “One More Thing” wildcard?
Jeff Yang CNN
Naturally, Apple has locked down the details of the revelations it plans on releasing on Monday tighter than Fort Knox. But the sense among many observers is that whatever they are, they’d better be good. Because since the beginning of the year, there have been signs that the fruit factory’s future prospects could be souring.
The company’s sales in China dropped dramatically earlier this year, as the iPhone was met with strong competition from local offerings like the Huawei Mate, forcing Apple to offer aggressive discounts there. In 2023, the International Trade Commission ruled that Apple stepped on medical equipment manufacturer Masimo’s existing patents in building a pulse oximeter into its newest Apple Watches, leading the company to halt sales of those versions of its wearable in December, until the feature could be temporarily removed, pending appeal of the decision. And in March, the Justice Department filed a lawsuit against Apple, alleging that the company engages in a broad range of anticompetitive practices related to its dominance in the US smartphone market — litigation that threatens the very core of the company’s business. (Apple denied the allegations.)
Of course, by most measures, the gadget maker is still a gargantuan global success. After tumbling earlier in the year, the company’s stock now stands just short of its all-time high, bringing its valuation back to about $3 trillion dollars (just six years after it became the world’s first trillion-dollar company). Juicing Apple’s growth? The iPhone, of course, which commands a 17% share of the global smartphone market as measured by units sold, but a staggering 43% of global smartphone revenues. And Apple’s services business, mostly defined by sales of apps and content, continues to thrive, and is projected to make up a quarter of the company’s total revenues by 2025.
A tech company’s success isn’t just measured by the products it has on the market in the present however, but its ability to innovate and stay ahead of the curve. That means Apple will be challenged to come up with some announcements that feel like they recapture some of the company’s golden-age glory.
Early focus has been on what Apple is planning on doing with artificial intelligence. Some rumors suggest that Apple is partnering with OpenAI (and perhaps Google and AI company Anthropic as well), which might be an unusual move in a number of respects — running counter to the company’s preferences to keep its most vital technologies in house, while feeling at best like a catch-up move rather than a revolutionary breakthrough.
Others have pointed to Apple’s recent release of OpenELM, a set of four scaled-down open-source language models, as an indicator of the company going in a different direction: delivering efficient AI features “on handset” without the need to call on servers in the cloud.
But the new capabilities being discussed as a result hardly feel earth-shattering: Transcribing voice memos? Summarizing chats and websites? Retouching photos? Uh…custom emojis? None of these are likely to have the impact of Open AI’s demo of GPT-4o, its voice-enabled latest large language model.
The reality is that for all of Apple’s profitability and streamlined commercial prowess under Tim Cook, it has yet to recapture the unique ability that it had under cofounder and iconic CEO Steve Jobs to control the cultural narrative — to make people feel that the company is still capable of changing the way people think about technology and how it intersects with their lives.
It’s a tougher argument to make now, given that Apple’s most hotly anticipated bets on its own innovation have either crashed and burned. In February, the company finally shut down Project Titan, the codename for its decade-long, $10 billion internal initiative to design an Apple-branded electric car. And Apple’s unveiling last year of its mixed reality “headtop” computer, the Vision Pro, generated initial buzz with its undoubtedly groundbreaking feature set and performance specs, but failed to catch immediate fire with consumers upon release.
Apple CEO Tim Cook introduces Apple Vision Pro, a mixed reality headset, at Apple Park in Cupertino, CA, on June 5, 2023.Brooks Kraft/Apple Inc.
The seeds of Vision Pro’s problem were visible in the WWDC unveiling itself. The dazzling computer-simulated demo, which showed visor-wearing users meditating in front of giant virtual mandalas, wandering around floating windows scattered across different rooms of their homes, and doing work while seated, surrounded by a swarm of apps, felt disconnected from things that people actually wanted to do.
By contrast, when Jobs pulled the curtains back on the first iPod in 2001, he held it up and said a single phrase that summed up its user promise: “1,000 songs, and it goes right in my pocket.” All the music you love, when you want it, at your fingertips. The iPod was dragged by some as overpriced and unnecessary, but the core benefit it provided was irresistible to actual consumers, and it brought an entirely new category of portable consumer electronics into the mainstream as a result.
What’s the songs-in-your-pocket equivalent for Vision Pro? Spreadsheets on your face? That’s certainly not a benefit capable of luring any but the earliest of adopters into spending $3,500 for the privilege of “spatial computing.” No one should count Vision Pro out — the iPad, Apple Watch and even the original iPhone all needed a little time and iteration to find their footing. But so far, if Apple is looking to reclaim its real-world relevance, Vision Pro isn’t it — yet. The device’s power consumption requires it to be tethered to an awkward waist-mounted external battery that gives it just a few hours of unplugged usage. Its most distinctive feature, EyeSight, which uses an outward-facing screen to present a ghostly image of the wearer’s eyes to the world in an attempt to remove the sense of the gadget as a barrier between users and the world around them, has been the subject of much mockery.
Still, Apple occupies a unique strategic space: The world sees it as one of the few true lifestyle brands in consumer tech, with products whose impact isn’t expressed in benchmarks, but in values shifts and behavior modification. And that’s because the seeds of Apple’s extraordinary success lie in the company’s ability to motivate people to reimagine their worlds around their products.
While the 1998 all-in-one iMac specs fell short of comparable Intel hardware, its interior decor-savvy sensibility led people to use it as a living room computer that was flaunted rather than hidden behind partitions, in turn opening the door for ever-deeper integration of consumer computing devices into our media consumption, home control and family interactions.
A decade later, the MacBook Air, famously demo’d in 2008 as the world’s thinnest notebook, thin enough to fit in a standard manila envelope, became the first laptop to really feel like a fashion accessory — a “purse PC,” if you will. Even the original iPhone, introduced the year before, forced users to re-envision their relationship with both handheld devices and screen-based communications, taking away most physical buttons and inviting people to tap icons on a minimalist touchscreen instead. The end result has been transformative.
What’s important to note is that all of these cultural revolutions are fundamentally rooted in design choices, not technological breakthroughs — changes in form factor and user interface based on extraordinary insights into how people want to interact with their digital stuff and with one another.
In the 13 years since Cook took the reins, and especially in the half decade since Jony Ive, former chief design director, left Apple, the company hasn’t yet managed to deliver the same kind of dent in the human universe. But in order to make cosmic dents, you have to take big swings. And while this may sound paradoxical, the thing that should make Apple fans feel optimistic that the company can get its mojo back is also what generated widespread derision at WWDC in 2023. EyeSight in its present form is goofy and creepy — but it’s an authentic attempt to address one of the critical concerns that people have about head-mounted devices.
Leaning into unexpected methods to socially integrate new technology is an encouraging echo of Jobs and Ive’s native focus on the intersection of technology and the liberal arts, of computing and humanity, even when their solutions fall short. Let’s hope that at this WWDC, the company defiantly ignores last year’s laughter and continues to look, and think, different.
