Front-page articles summarized hourly.
Alberto Marnetto details the process of enhancing the 30-year-old 3D engine of the flight simulator "Stunt Island." After completing the game, he embarked on reverse engineering to improve its graphics capabilities. He used tools like DOSBox and Ghidra to analyze the game’s code and discovered how to increase the detail setting to 800%, significantly enhancing the game's visual quality while keeping it playable. Marnetto also created a patch for users to apply these enhancements easily. The final version retains features from an existing Disney patch while enabling improved graphics.
Summary: The comments express strong enthusiasm for the game "Mickey's Revenge," highlighting its visual improvements with increased level of detail (LOD) at 800%, which significantly enhances the gaming experience. One user remarks, "This is awesome. Mickey's Revenge looks so much better with LOD at 800%!" This suggests that graphical quality is a pivotal factor in the game’s appeal. Additionally, there is a sentiment that the game is underappreciated, with one commenter stating, "This game is a gem, it deserves a spot in the video-game hall of fame." This underscores a belief in the game's significance and potential legacy within the gaming community. Overall, the main themes are appreciation for enhanced graphics and recognition of the game’s value in gaming history.
The Kagi Search API allows programmable access to premium search results and is currently in closed beta for Kagi Business (Team) plan subscribers, costing $19/month plus 2.5 cents per search. Users need to create a Kagi account to obtain an API key. The API supports querying with various parameters and returns structured search result objects. A Python SDK is also available. The service aims to provide personalized search results while ensuring privacy and quality.
Summary: The comments reflect a debate on Kagi's pricing structure and its comparison with other search APIs, particularly Serp and Brave. Several users express that Kagi's cost of $19/month plus 2.5 cents per search is considered "ridiculously expensive," especially compared to alternatives like Serp's 1 cent per search or Brave's 0.3 cents per request. Concerns are raised regarding Kagi's search API infrastructure and whether the pricing is justifiable for traditional queries. One commenter noted, "If I understand this part correctly... this will be usable for any member" post-beta, indicating optimism for broader access. However, the API is criticized for being "too simplistic" and lacking features, with one user suggesting it feels "half baked." Despite these criticisms, there are positive remarks: "I recommend it very much," highlighting user loyalty. Overall, there's hope for Kagi's growth amid skepticism about its current offerings and pricing.
The talk "Beguiling Emacs: Guile-Emacs Relaunched" at EmacsConf 2024 will address the Guile-Emacs project, which aims to integrate Emacs with Guile through a new Elisp implementation. Presenter Robin Templeton will discuss the project's goals, architecture, history, and immediate tasks, highlighting Emacs' future role within the GNU Project as a "Lisp machine for the 21st century." The talk includes code samples and live demos. It focuses on engaging participants in the development and understanding of Guile-Emacs.
Summary: The comments reflect a mix of appreciation and skepticism towards a project related to Emacs. The sentiment of valuing the project's significance is highlighted in the phrase "very important line of work," indicating recognition of its potential impact. However, there's a prevailing sense of doubt regarding its success, as one commenter notes, "most of the emacs user community seems uninterested," suggesting a lack of engagement or support within the community. Despite this pessimism, there's also a note of encouragement with the expression, "Godspeed," showcasing hope for the project's progress despite the challenges it may face. Overall, the themes revolve around the project's importance juxtaposed with concerns over community interest and viability.
A study from OsloMet examines "digital housekeeping," the often-overlooked management of smart home technology. Researchers note that while smart devices can enhance convenience, they also introduce additional chores and power imbalances in households. Often, one partner, typically the male, introduces the technology, leading to frustration for others who must engage with it without full understanding. This dynamic raises questions about the division of household labor, with traditional housework still largely performed by women. The study suggests that recognizing digital chores could help balance responsibilities within homes.
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"Snatched" is a party game for 1-8 players where you play as an alien capturing AI characters to bring them back to your ship. It's currently available on Discord for desktop, with a mobile version coming soon.
Summary: The main themes in the comments about "Snatched Party" revolve around its innovative concept and accessibility. Users appreciate that it's an alien-themed game, sparking curiosity and excitement. The fact that it can be played for free in the browser is highlighted as a significant plus, making it easy to access for friends and even AI characters. One comment noted, "You can play with your friends or LLM powered game characters," suggesting a blend of social interaction with cutting-edge technology, which adds a unique twist to the gaming experience. Overall, enthusiasm for both the theme and the mechanics of the game stands out in the discussion.
Beeks Group, a UK cloud operator, migrated most of its 20,000 virtual machines from VMware to the open-source platform OpenNebula due to a significant tenfold increase in licensing costs following Broadcom's acquisition of VMware. This transition has reportedly improved VM efficiency by 200%. The company and others have expressed dissatisfaction with rising VMware costs and reduced innovation, prompting them to seek alternatives. Broadcom's strategy seems aimed at larger enterprises despite growing customer discontent, with several organizations exploring options like OpenNebula to mitigate dependence on VMware services.
Summary: The comments reflect a critical sentiment towards Broadcom's drastic pricing strategies on VMware products, suggesting a predatory approach focused on high-margin clients at the expense of smaller users. Many commenters ponder the rationale behind potential 10x price hikes, questioning if Broadcom believes alienating smaller clients is justified by increased revenue from larger accounts. Concerns about long-term sustainability are prevalent, with one remarking Broadcom “seems to be cutting off too large a chunk of customers.” Comments highlight alternatives like Proxmox and open-source solutions, which users find capable and cost-effective. For example, one user stated they switched to Ganeti and were “really happy” with the decision. Contributors emphasize vendor lock-in as a significant risk, underlining that reliance on single suppliers decreases options for companies facing steep price increases. Overall, there is a strong desire for companies to consider diverse suppliers to mitigate risks associated with vendor monopolies.
A BBC investigation reveals concerns that UK universities are enrolling foreign students with inadequate English skills to bolster income from high tuition fees. Many international students struggle to understand lectures and resort to using essay mills or AI for coursework. While Universities UK claims strict language requirements exist, reports suggest some institutions overlook these to maintain financial stability amid declining international student numbers. Critics argue this undermines educational standards, with professors noting that a significant percentage of their students lack essential language competencies. This situation exacerbates financial pressures on universities as applications from overseas students decline.
Summary: The comments express concerns about the exploitation and devaluation of university degrees, particularly regarding non-native English speakers. One commenter emphasizes that "immersion in the culture" is crucial for language learning, while criticizing the exploitation of students who pay others to complete their coursework, highlighting the need for genuine learning: "you don’t need to pay to a university degree course to learn English." There is a perception that the system prioritizes financial gain over educational quality, as universities rely on overseas students for funding. The result is a "substituting an inferior version" of education, where the prestige of a UK degree is maintained despite potential compromises on learning quality, as noted: "the quality of the learning... well, that’s not in the financial reports."
Vintage digital cameras are gaining popularity among young photographers as an artistic choice, contrasting with the sleek, high-quality images produced by smartphones. Embracing quirks and imperfections, these "digicam" enthusiasts favor early 2000s models for their unique aesthetics. The trend has sparked a resurgence in vintage gear, leading to increased prices and demand. Collectors and users face challenges in sourcing parts and maintaining older models, but many see value in repurposing technology and fostering a creative community. The hashtag #NoBadCameras promotes inclusivity, encouraging photographers to explore and enjoy the unique outputs of these retro devices.
Summary: The comments primarily explore the nostalgic appeal and perceived superiority of vintage cameras compared to modern technology, diving into themes of consumerism, aesthetics, and individuality. One commenter notes, "Old stuff feels better because people are familiar with it," emphasizing familiarity and character. Others critique modern tech's disposable nature, contrasting specialized tools with ubiquitous smartphones. There’s a shared sentiment that older technology fosters intentionality in photography, with one remarking, "They think more intentionally about the framing of the shot." Meanwhile, discussions on the aesthetic qualities of vinyl versus digital sound highlight similar nostalgia-driven experiences. One user states, “Humans like distortion,” suggesting that imperfections in older formats often evoke emotional responses. Ultimately, these comments reveal a tension between modern convenience and the value of historical craftsmanship, asserting that while not all old tech is superior, it often carries a unique charm and purpose that resonates with users today.
A rewilding project at Knepp Estate in England has successfully revived the white stork population, which disappeared over 600 years ago. Starting with 30 rescued storks from Poland, the colony grew to 80, marking the first breeding in Britain in centuries. The storks now migrate to North Africa, facing challenges like power line collisions. The project highlights the importance of rewilded habitats for wildlife and encourages community involvement in conservation efforts. Innovations like insulated power lines could mitigate risks for migratory birds, while local initiatives promote garden habitats for birds.
Summary: The comments highlight a strong appreciation for storks in the Polish countryside, emphasizing their coexistence with local agricultural practices. The construction of nesting frames for storks, often on roofs or utility poles, is noted as a common practice to protect the nests from predators and electricity: "it's best to build it a meter or more over the base." Observations about stork behavior reveal their adaptability; rather than feeding in swamps, storks are often seen "walking behind a tractor plowing a field," where they hunt for insects and small animals disturbed by farming activities. This relationship demonstrates a mutual benefit, as farmers appreciate the storks for their role in pest control. Overall, the discussions reflect a deep respect for storks and an understanding of their ecological importance.
The GitHub repository "edgedressing" includes tools for browser fingerprinting and exploits utilizing duster payloads. The creator expresses frustration with Microsoft and discusses the lack of innovation in exploiting WiFi vulnerabilities. They mention the tool's effectiveness but acknowledge user experience drawbacks. The project aims to gather information while a browser is open, inspired by previous tools like BeEF.
Summary: The comments reflect a mix of anticipation and curiosity regarding Microsoft's potential actions related to the Network Connectivity Status Indicator (NCSI) and its probing mechanism. One commenter expresses enthusiasm, stating, "It would be cool to see Microsoft finally take action with the release of this," indicating hope for meaningful updates. Another commenter seeks clarification about posted code, asking, "What does it do?" This suggests a desire for more context and understanding of the technical aspects involved. Overall, the themes center on eagerness for innovation and a quest for clarity regarding the functionality of the code related to NCSI.
Daniel Stenberg, the lead developer of curl, receives numerous emails about issues with Cisco’s AnyConnect due to his name being listed in the VPN client. He clarifies that he has no association with Cisco or AnyConnect and cannot provide assistance. Users should instead contact Cisco support at ac-mobile-feedback@cisco.com for help.
Summary: The comments discuss frustrations and humorous anecdotes related to technical support issues, particularly regarding contact information and the challenges faced by both users and support staff. A key theme is the confusion around support channels, as highlighted by one user stating, “End users should NEVER email Cisco directly,” emphasizing the need for proper IT protocols. Tim Bray humorously reflects on the burden of frequent tech support inquiries, while another commenter shares amusing misunderstandings experienced in their work related to similar confusion. There is also a concern about the decline in direct communication access and how users often struggle to get appropriate help. As one user noted, “Many people... will try literally anything before trying to contact their in-house IT support,” showcasing the desperation some feel in seeking assistance. Overall, the comments blend humor with serious frustrations about the state of tech support and user communication.
The case explores a lawsuit faced by AdGrok, a startup founded by former Adchemy employees, following their departure. Adchemy sued AdGrok, complicating their fundraising efforts after Y Combinator's Demo Day. The narrative highlights how Y Combinator, led by Paul Graham, leveraged its influence in Silicon Valley to apply pressure on Adchemy's investors and CEO, ultimately leading to a resolution. Despite winning the lawsuit, AdGrok suffered from exhaustion and challenges. Adchemy's eventual demise and the contrasting fortunes of its CEO underscored the harsh realities of startup life and the power dynamics within Silicon Valley.
Summary: The comments reflect a critical examination of Silicon Valley’s cultural and business dynamics, particularly surrounding Y Combinator (YC) and cancel culture. Participants note a perceived hypocrisy in YC's leaders who oppose cancel culture yet wield power to threaten individuals' careers in the valley. One commenter states, “Standing against cancel culture is not the same as standing against social sanctions.” There's also discussion about the motivations of powerful individuals, suggesting that “money and power hungry people have no principles.” Participants call out the dual nature of cancel culture and professional networking, emphasizing that “you're not entitled to invest in whatever company you want.” Lastly, there are concerns about the consequences of legal threats against startups, highlighting a system where “the only winners are the lawyers,” stressing the need for reform in how litigations impact founders personally.
A new plugin called sqlite-utils-ask for the sqlite-utils CLI tool allows users to query SQLite databases and CSV/JSON files using natural language. After installation, it interprets user questions, generates SQL queries using an LLM, and executes them to retrieve answers. The tool can also handle files directly, importing CSV and JSON data into an in-memory SQLite database for querying. With options for verbosity and input examples, it aims to enhance accuracy in responses. The implementation consists of about 250 lines of Python code, utilizing LLM's Python API for flexibility in model selection.
Summary: The discussion highlights a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism regarding the use of language models (LLMs) for generating SQL queries. Critics emphasize the unreliability of LLM-generated outputs, noting that "syntax errors... are the one thing that you can completely eliminate in LLMs" and expressing concern about the risks of executing unchecked queries. One commenter argues, "we’ve moved on before... it seems almost perfectly okay to peddle uncertainty, hallucinations and random results." Despite these concerns, some see value in LLMs for tasks like translating informal language into structured queries, asserting that they "play into their strength" in understanding data structures. Overall, there’s a call for using the right tools for the right tasks, emphasizing the need for accuracy and caution in handling data privacy.
Kapa.ai, founded in 2023, helps technical companies create AI assistants using existing knowledge sources. With a team of 9, they support over 750k developers through various integrations. They are hiring for multiple positions, including Software Engineer, Engagement Manager, and Research Engineer, offering competitive salaries and equity options. Kapa.ai has notable backing from prominent Silicon Valley investors and works with over 150 leading startups and enterprises to improve developer experience and support efficiency.
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Erlang is a programming language designed for concurrent, fault-tolerant, and distributed systems, based on the Actor Model. Its lightweight processes and message-passing enable efficient concurrency. Erlang's fault tolerance includes linking and monitoring processes, while the Open Telecom Platform (OTP) provides abstractions for building scalable applications. Distribution allows Erlang programs to communicate over multiple nodes, but it faces challenges like scalability, network partitions, and performance bottlenecks. Understanding these principles and pitfalls is essential for developing robust, distributed systems in Erlang.
Summary: The comments primarily discuss function definitions, type systems, and the limitations of distributed Erlang systems. One user expressed initial confusion over the function notation but later appreciated the clarity it provides in dynamic languages. Another user criticized the idea of a function returning multiple types, labeling it as a "TERRIBLE idea." Comments also delve into Erlang's type specifications and the performance concerns of large distributed systems, with one user noting that managing heartbeat messages in a sizable cluster can lead to significant network traffic. They stated, "Using up almost half of your pps... certainly seems like it’s more than 'not a big deal'." There’s debate regarding the practicality of maintaining numerous small nodes versus fewer large nodes, emphasizing the need for careful network design. Overall, users shared insights into both theoretical ideas and practical considerations in programming and system architecture.
BonBook is a service allowing users to find flights from San Francisco to Los Angeles. Users can send a request via email. The site addresses questions about the nature of flight results, booking capabilities, and includes terms and policies.
Summary: The comments focus on the positive reception of BonBook, an inbox simulator for booking flights without email sharing. Users appreciate its ease and efficiency, especially frequent travelers. One user noted, “I booked myself a new flight for the next morning within 90 seconds. Pure magic,” highlighting the tool's speed in urgent situations. The simulator has garnered praise for its user-friendly interface and the ability to compare flights directly with Google. Feedback includes a request for more precise airport search functionalities, as one user expressed frustration over being shown flights from airports "1.5 - 2 hours away" rather than their specified choice. Overall, users are enthusiastic about the platform's potential, with comments like “Great idea. Would use” and suggestions for future enhancements, indicating an optimistic outlook on its development and effectiveness.
The article explores the nature of software through the lens of Nurbay Irmak's philosophical perspective, proposing that software is an "abstract artifact" rather than tied to its physical instances like disks or bytes. Using Windows 7 as a case study, it challenges notions of identity, asking if software is identical to its various manifestations (like text or executions). Ultimately, it suggests that software transcends specific instances, existing independently as an abstract concept, and discusses how software persists beyond changes, highlighting criteria for when software ceases to exist.
Summary: The comments revolve around the definition and nature of software, distinguishing between its theoretical concepts and practical execution. One user argues that referring to software as an "Abstract Artifact" is too ambiguous, suggesting that "the runtime" is a more accurate term since "software is identical to its runtime execution." They emphasize that until software is executed, such as operating systems stored on SSDs, it is merely "information on a storage medium." The prevailing theme highlights the importance of execution in understanding software's true nature and functionality.
Blizzard is removing Warcraft I & II from GOG ahead of their remastered versions' release, testing GOG's new Preservation Program. This program aims to maintain access to older games even if they are delisted. GOG offers a discount for the original bundle until December 13, allowing buyers to keep offline installers. The program commits to updating and ensuring compatibility for classic games, a response to publishers' tendency to pull originals after remasters. GOG’s efforts highlight a push for preserving gaming history in the face of changing market dynamics.
Summary: The comments discuss the decline of Blizzard Entertainment, focusing on its struggle to retain goodwill with customers amid perceived "greedy" practices. Commenters speculate that Blizzard's removal of older titles from GOG is a tactic to drive sales for newer remasters, although many feel it further alienates loyal customers. One comment notes, "Blizzard has lost the assumption of goodwill by their customers years ago." Gamers express frustration over outdated gameplay mechanics and the company's monopolistic tendencies, with remarks like, "Mainstream gaming is borderline masochistic." Others highlight the challenges of modern gaming environments, stressing the importance of preserving classic games. For example, one user mentions, “The idea of not being able to purchase older titles in a legitimate way only encourages piracy." This discussion underscores a broader concern about the gaming industry's trajectory, echoing sentiments of nostalgia and loss for past standards of quality.
The roadmap for integrating Rust into QEMU, led by Paolo Bonzini, outlines several subprojects and current status, including feature parity for pl011 devices and improvements in the build system. Key areas of focus include avoiding undefined behavior, ensuring safe QOM class definitions, developing callbacks, and enhancing data structure interoperability with QEMU's error handling. Additionally, it highlights the need for improved tracing, logging, and interoperability features. The integration aims to leverage recent Rust features while gradually transitioning from unsafe code to safer abstractions.
Summary: The comments primarily discuss the potential of integrating Rust into the Linux kernel, particularly in driver development, with one participant mentioning, "For drivers, it’s already happening," indicating optimism about Rust's role. There is a shared concern regarding the substantial work needed for FFI (Foreign Function Interface) adaptation within the community. Participants express frustration with C++ complexities, with one stating, "The QEMU code base is a nightmare," suggesting Rust's introduction could simplify matters. Some comment on Rust's syntax, with mixed opinions; one finds it "ugly" while another argues about its benefits for memory safety. An overarching theme is the debate on whether rewriting existing systems in Rust is excessive, with one participant asserting, "The current trend of rewriting everything in Rust is out of control." Ultimately, there's a desire for better interoperability and simplification within the Rust ecosystem.
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Summary: The comments express frustration and concern over ongoing global conflicts, particularly under President Biden's administration. One commenter laments, "No peace, only wars everywhere," highlighting a pervasive sense of hopelessness regarding international stability. There’s a fear that situations akin to Ukraine might arise elsewhere, indicating skepticism about U.S. intervention. Additionally, the request for context on South Korean politics underscores a desire for clarity amid reports of "corruption probe," "a weird cult," and potential "coup d’etat," reflecting anxiety about political instability in that region. Overall, the themes revolve around the cyclical nature of conflict and the complexities of foreign political environments.