Tag Archives: bold

Elon Musk’s Bold Vision for the Future: Will His Big Bets Pay Off?

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Elon Musk at World Economic Forum

Billionaire Elon Musk at the World Economic Forum

Krisztian Bocsi/Bloomberg via Getty Images

Elon Musk, known for his leadership in several multibillion-dollar companies, continues to capture headlines. While his polarizing views draw attention, his flagship companies—Tesla and SpaceX—are undeniably pioneering advancements in electric vehicles and space exploration. Recent corporate maneuvers indicate that Musk may have an ambitious plan to integrate these ventures.

In a strategic development, Tesla has announced plans to halt production of its Model S and Model X. This shift does not signify an end to vehicle manufacturing; rather, the production facilities are to be reconfigured to advance Tesla’s humanoid robot, Optimus. Concurrently, Tesla is set to invest $2 billion into xAI, another of Musk’s enterprises, which oversees the social media platform X and its controversial chatbot, Grok.

This collective shift suggests Tesla is prioritizing AI-driven initiatives. In a recent report, both Bloomberg and Reuters revealed Musk’s intentions to merge SpaceX with either Tesla or xAI—or potentially both—in light of his plans to take SpaceX public this year.

What is Musk aiming to achieve with this consolidation? “By integrating xAI and SpaceX, he may be seeking to enhance resource efficiency across data, energy, and computing,” explains Marbe Hickok from the University of Michigan. “He also suggested a merger with Tesla to leverage their technologies for distributed computing.”

Projected plans for humanoid robots, with Musk expressing a goal to manufacture 1 million third-generation Optimus robots annually, require substantial computing resources for AI. Interacting with humans and the surrounding environment necessitates sophisticated AI systems capable of managing extensive data.

Nevertheless, the rise of generative AI is already straining energy resources. Musk’s xAI recently faced scrutiny at the Colossus Data Center in Memphis, which came under fire from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for exceeding legal power generation limits. Musk has previously advocated for establishing data centers in space, positing that a rollout could occur within two to three years. However, many experts caution that various technical challenges—including cooling and radiation protection—must be resolved first.

Despite these challenges, launching a data center into orbit presents an opportunity, and SpaceX stands as a leading provider of reliable launches for both private and public sectors. Their extensive experience, particularly with their Starlink satellite internet division, supports this ambition.

“SpaceX is actively deploying a satellite grid in orbit—currently over 9,000 satellites—focused on internet distribution,” states Robert Scoble, a technology analyst at Unaligned. “While xAI works on internet distribution and news, its primary focus is developing innovative AI models that empower our vehicles, humanoid robots, and daily lives,” he says, “the convergence of these endeavors makes strategic sense.”

Ultimately, Musk envisions that the collaboration of SpaceX, Tesla, and xAI could position them at the forefront of the AI landscape, competing against major players like OpenAI, Google, and Microsoft. However, all three companies have not publicly commented on these developments, and Musk himself remains silent.

Contrarily, some experts challenge Musk’s strategic direction. “Currently, only Tesla possesses financial capabilities, but its trajectory is concerning for funding future growth,” asserts Edward Niedermayer, author of Ridiculous: The True Story of the Tesla Motor. He suggests these moves are “defensive,” aimed at bolstering the companies for future prospects and attracting broader retail investor interest.

Niedermayer emphasizes the necessity of public investment due to mounting operational costs: “Running out of cash is a significant concern,” he notes. “The expenses associated with training and operating AI models are considerable.” His belief is that by consolidating resources, Musk aims to present an attractive investment opportunity. However, if his vision doesn’t materialize, it could result in significant repercussions.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Critique of The Arrogant Monkey: A Bold New Book Challenges the Myth of Human Exceptionalism

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Chimpanzee intelligence tests are primarily performed in laboratories, not in their natural environments or sanctuaries like this.

Patrick Meinhardt/AFP via Getty Images

The Arrogant Ape
by Christine Webb Abacus, UK; Avery, USA

In the beginning, God created man in His own image, granting him authority over all living things on Earth. While many do not turn to the Bible for insight into human existence, the belief in human superiority over nature and other beings lingers.

Characteristics often claimed to distinguish humans—such as reasoning, tool use, experiencing pain, and moral judgment—are not exclusive to us. Other species like chimpanzees and crows exhibit advanced intelligence, hold complex social structures, and utilize tools. Fish and crustaceans experience pain, while bees demonstrate cultural behaviors, and plants may possess senses akin to ours.

Primatologist Christine Webb posits that the so-called “human dominance complex” may be the root of nature’s hierarchies. In The Arrogant Monkey: And a New Look at Humanity, she seeks to dismantle this perceived superiority through a compelling and meticulously researched examination based on a course she taught at Harvard. Webb traces this notion back to religious traditions and other human constructs, revealing how it misrepresents scientific understanding and accelerates ecological decline.

The belief in human uniqueness contradicts Darwin’s vision of species continuity, and emphasizing differences among species is problematic. As Webb writes, “the degree of kindness,” reflects a hidden bias in research.

This bias is apparent in our fascination with primates and “charismatic” mammals, which we tend to view as more relatable, while disregarding plants, fish, and the vast majority of Earth’s life. It also reveals itself in our inconsistent standards for evaluating animals. For instance, comparisons between human and chimpanzee intelligence often pit captive chimps against their wild counterparts, ignoring the limitations that captivity imposes.

Concerned about ethical issues surrounding captivity and its potential to skew research findings, Webb focuses exclusively on great apes in their natural and protected habitats. These profound interactions have shaped her belief that many non-human species likely possess some form of consciousness or “conscious life.”

Webb anticipates that critics may dismiss her views as anthropomorphism, labeling it a “serious scientific error.” However, she argues that the reluctance to acknowledge similarities between humans and other species complicates scientific inquiry and undermines its conclusions. She questions the certainty with which humans claim to understand consciousness beyond their own.

Dismantling these beliefs is crucial for appreciating the wonder and diversity of life, marking the first step towards a “radically humble approach.” By recognizing ourselves as fellow animals and integral to nature, we can confront the destructive forces of capitalism that fuel zoonotic diseases, mass extinctions, climate change, and ecosystem collapse.

Webb advocates for broadening the concept of “good science” to incorporate indigenous knowledge about the uniqueness and interconnection of all life forms. She acknowledges the immense challenge this poses, declaring that human exceptionalism is “the most pervasive implicit belief of our era.” Yet, she believes that unlearning this can foster a deeper connection to nature, spark awe, and inspire advocacy for both animal welfare and environmental protection. In The Arrogant Monkey, she highlights this “stubborn ideology” and its detrimental impacts, modeling the humility, curiosity, and compassion essential for countering it.

Elle Hunt – A writer based in Norwich, UK.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

This Paper Deserves an Award for its Humble Approach to Bold Ideas.

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Feedback is New Scientist A popular source for those seeking the latest in science and technology news. To share your thoughts on topics that may interest our readers, please send an email to feedback@newscientist.com.

Speaking Our Truth

Expert science journalists often learn to skim specific sections of scientific papers, particularly those asserting that the research signifies a “significant advancement” or “broadens understanding.” This isn’t because they are inaccurate, but because nearly any research yielding results can make these assertions, and academics are motivated (as we all are) to amplify the significance of their work.

But sometimes, it isn’t a hassle. Following a chain of events initiated by reporter Matthew Sparks and shared on the social platform Bluesky, Feedback uncovered a 2018 paper on the arXiv preprint server that would have claimed the prize for “most honest” research effort. Absolute refusal to make grand claims.

In this study, authors Joseph Redmon and Ali Farhadi detailed the latest iteration of YOLO, an AI framework designed to recognize objects in images. YOLO has even outperformed CAPTCHA tests requiring users to identify all squares containing bicycles and has been utilized to detect smuggling vessels. All said, these achievements are truly impressive (though perhaps alarming), but by 2018, the duo had evidently been coasting.

The title of their paper itself—”YOLOv3: Incremental Improvements”—is telling. The brief summary echoes this sentiment, stating, “we’ve implemented several minor design adjustments to enhance performance.” The essence can be distilled to: ‘You’ve contacted me year-round, yet my research efforts this year were sparse; much of my time was spent on Twitter.’ This line is, in fact, the date noted in the paper.

The authors further admit that the “improvements” largely stemmed from “good ideas taken from others.” They dive into details, first confessing that their tweaks are “not particularly exciting—just a collection of minor updates to enhance functionality.”

They then transition to Section 4, titled “Things I Tried That Didn’t Work.” This section, Feedback argues, should be a standard inclusion in all scientific publications, potentially saving others considerable time.

Despite acknowledging that they only recounted “what we recall,” they do remember an attempt involving something called “focal loss,” which ended up diminishing the model’s accuracy. “YOLOv3 might already be resilient to the focal loss problem, as it differentiates objectness prediction and conditional class prediction, resulting in minimal accuracy loss in most cases. Or maybe not? I’m not entirely sure,” they commented.

Feedback: I must have overlooked this in 2018, or I can’t believe I missed it when the article was spotlighted. Aggregator site Reddit played a role, but thanks to sociologist Per Angel, who mentioned in Bluesky:the restrictions section is a space for academics to practice radical honesty in just one paragraph. Data scientist Johan Ugander remarked that the YOLOv3 paper “deserves an accolade.” A truly candid piece.

Surely, there’s an academic somewhere known for their radical honesty regarding their minimal accomplishments. I’ll send an email to the usual address.

A Touch of Longevity

Clare Boyes once stated: “I understand you steer clear of prescriptive determinism, but I felt compelled to forward you this email I received today from the British Wildlife Newsletter.” It mentioned a book titled Tree Hunting: 1,000 Trees to Find in Towns and Cities Across the UK and Ireland, authored by Paul Wood.

In a similar vein, Robert Master pointed out that a recent special issue titled “How to Live to 100” (TL;DR: Don’t Die) featured a longevity researcher named Paul Lazarus.

Sleep on This

A while back (in July), Feedback reported on receiving a press release staunchly defending the environmental sustainability of avocados, only to find it originated from the World Avocado Organization. We concluded that while these individuals may be correct, they surely operate under a peculiar incentive structure.

We received no additional information from the avocado vendor, but we were inundated with press releases emphasizing the significance of sleep. “Struggling to find a solution? Science confirms that sleeping on it genuinely resolves your issues,” the first message proclaimed. It highlighted “exciting new research” and asserted that “the traditional advice to sleep on things may actually be one of the most effective problem-solving strategies available.”

This is attributed to the brain’s ability to continue processing memories and forging new connections while we sleep, occasionally leading to innovative insights through the amalgamation of new and old concepts. There was talk of memory consolidation, the prefrontal cortex (often seen as the brain’s inner critic), and associative thinking.

The follow-up email delved even further with a dramatic, albeit grammatically questionable, title: “New Study Indicates Rising Mortality Among Young Adults, Experts Warn Continued Sleep Deprivation Could Aggravate This.” The press release linked sleep deprivation with chronic health issues. There was also a quote from a “certified sleep coach”—possibly real?—but our minds conjured an image of a sweaty man in a tracksuit, whistle in hand, shouting, “Give me seven [hours]!” Yet the message remained clear: “Prioritize sleep.”

While it may have been foreshadowing, if you weren’t prepared for it, both emails, of course, came from mattress supplier Amerisleep.

Have a story for Feedback?

You can send your article to Feedback at feedback@newscientist.com. Please include your home address. This week’s and previous feedback can be accessed on our website.

Source: www.newscientist.com

Basilisk Review: A Bold, Experimental Thriller That Thrills Puzzle Enthusiasts

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Can Powerful Ideas Cause Physical Harm Through Exposure?

Sumaid Pal Singh Bakshi/Unsplash

Basilisk
Matt Wixey (Titan Books, July 1)

I’m manipulating your thoughts. Just by reading this, I have invaded your mind, as each word travels from my heart to yours. I can even conjure unexpected images in your mind—quickly, don’t think of a pink elephant! Whatever you do, don’t visualize it!

Fortunately, there are limits to the influence of mere words and ideas. But what if those limits could be transcended? Imagine a phrase so potent that it could guide your very thoughts toward your own demise. This is the premise explored in Basilisk, an experimental thriller by Matt Wixey, designed specifically for the minds of readers like those of New Scientist.

This novel features a complex narrative structure, reminiscent of House of Leaves by Mark Z. Danielewski. It follows ethical hacker Alex Webster, who works with a computer security firm, attempting to breach her client’s network while aiding in their defense, a professional endeavor shared by debut author Wixey.

However, it’s not merely straightforward. Webster narrates her experiences through two intertwined threads. First, we unravel how she and colleague Jay Morton stumbled into the puzzle leading to his death. Then, she reflects on that tragedy and processes its far-reaching consequences.

The narrative doesn’t end there. Webster’s accounts are supplemented with footnotes from both her and the detective investigating Morton’s death, interspersed with correspondence from a mysterious figure known as Helmsman, who sheds light on the puzzle they aim to solve.

This book feels tailor-made for my brain—that of a New Scientist reader.

If all this sounds overwhelming, Basilisk may not be for you. Personally, piecing together the multifaceted narratives exhilarated me, making my mind race with possibilities.

Helmsman’s correspondences themselves adopt various formats, from bureaucratic emails and scientific reports to conversational dialogues. They tackle numerous topics typically found in New Scientist, covering psychology to artificial intelligence, and I appreciated the precise references to scientific literature. Helmsman details attempts to cultivate a “basilisk,” a concept that can inflict harm merely through exposure, named after the mythical creature said to slay with a glance.

Matt Wixey’s Basilisk centers on “Ethical Hacker” Alex Webster

Basilisks are, as far as we know, fictional, yet the concepts they embody are increasingly compelling. Science fiction author David Langford has explored such ideas in his short stories. Basilisk presents the notion of images that may ‘crash’ the human mind akin to deceptive computer code.

A notable example is Roko’s basilisk—a baffling proposition suggesting that all-powerful future AI will punish those who fail to ensure its creation (a more thorough explanation isn’t wise). The latest series of the anthology Black Mirror also references this concept.

Basilisk represents a subset of broader cognitive hazards, which span topics from nuclear weapons to organized religions.

While reading Basilisk, sleepless nights drove me to read yet another chapter, prompting me to question if the book itself qualifies as a cognitive hazard. I found it difficult to stop thinking about even after finishing. Now that you’ve read this review, perhaps you’re at risk, too.

Please proceed. Dive into the book. Wouldn’t you want to discover what unfolds?

The Art and Science Behind Writing Science Fiction

Embark on a journey into the realm of science fiction writing this weekend, dedicated to creating new worlds and artistic marvels.

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Source: www.newscientist.com

Once Unimaginable: Xbox’s Bold Venture into Handheld Consoles | Games

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jA few days after Nintendo launched its long-awaited Switch successor, Microsoft introduced its own long-term handheld console, the Xbox Ally. This announcement is significant not only due to Xbox’s collaboration with gamers from the High-end PC Specialist Republic for branding, but also because it boasts top-tier hardware. It’s apparent that the Xbox Ally X, one of two models slated for release before Christmas, was revealed just hours prior at the Xbox Showcase on June 8th, positioning itself as a serious competitor to both the Switch 2 and Valve’s Steam Decks.

The Xbox Ally emerges from the collaboration of four major tech companies—Windows, Xbox, AMD, and Asus—marking it as their flagship product. Both the Xbox Ally and Ally X models feature a 7-inch 1080p touchscreen, with the Ally X equipped with 16GB of RAM and the Ally featuring 24GB of RAM, each model offering options of 512GB or 1TB SSD storage. Powered by a Ryzen Z2 chip, the Ally X includes an AI Z2 chip that integrates the AI processor directly into silicon. According to Roanne Sones, head of gaming devices at Microsoft, this integration allows players to “utilize the AI experience without compromising GPU performance.” Although both devices run Windows, the interface has been optimized for gaming.

“I’m not running a Windows desktop,” stated Jason Beaumont, Xbox’s VP of experience. “It’s not about simply playing video games; it’s not bogged down by icons, taskbars, or unnecessary components. It conserves resources and allocates them to enhance performance for gaming.”

Players can access their game library using a dedicated Library button on the device, along with a new Xbox button that functions similarly to the one on the console controller. This library encompasses PC games from Xbox and other platforms, allowing seamless streaming from existing Xbox consoles if owned. With an Xbox Game Pass subscription, hundreds of games become instantly playable on the Ally devices.


ROG Xbox Ally X. Photo: rog

During a Microsoft presentation in Los Angeles, I held the Xbox Ally X with my right hand. Although my hands are small, I found it to be sizable (and heavier than the Switch 2), yet still manageable. As someone who favors the ergonomics of Xbox controllers over the PlayStation DualSense, I appreciated the asymmetrical joysticks and the layout that mirrors the Xbox pad.

Upon launching the Xbox Ally X, it immediately presents a homepage reflecting your recently played Xbox games, similar to the console interface. I was prompted to play Gears of War: Reloaded. As a huge Gears fan, experiencing remastered versions of games I hadn’t played in nearly 20 years while holding the console in my hands was surreal.

Muscle memory kicked in right away: I pressed A to move Marcus towards the wall and reload the weapon quickly by timing my R1 button press. Gears of War: Reloaded was selected somewhat unexpectedly, revealing a brief overview video featuring insights from Microsoft, Windows, Asus, and AMD executives. One noted that the Xbox Ally X’s power and capabilities were unimaginable just three years ago.

Perhaps influenced by external economic factors, Microsoft may have hesitated to disclose its full potential during this timeframe. Nevertheless, the design, functionality, and features of the ROG Xbox Ally position it as an excellent choice for anyone seeking access to both Xbox and third-party games in a portable format.

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Pricing is a significant consideration. Even budget-friendly handheld consoles may surpass the cost of Nintendo’s new Switch 2. However, for someone who hasn’t invested in Nintendo titles and has previously gifted Steam Decks, the ROG Xbox Ally offers a tempting opportunity to regularly pick up and play.

Source: www.theguardian.com

DOOM: The Dark Ages Review – ID Software Takes a Medieval Twist with a Bold Redefinition of Shooter Gameplay

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b
Built as a reimagining of id Software’s 2016 “Doom Eternal,” “Dark Ages” diverges significantly while still echoing the essence of its lineage. Whereas the 2020 iteration focused on speed and evasion, “Dark Ages” emphasizes a staunch, grounded approach. If the previous game revolved around eliminating foes one at a time, this installment empowers players to obliterate hordes of demons simultaneously. The frantic, rapid-fire nature of “Eternal” gives way to a brute force mentality in “Dark Ages,” where smashing through enemies becomes the primary strategy. The essence of ripping and tearing is still prevalent, with an emphasis on raw power.

At the heart of “Dark Ages” lies a combat system reminiscent of the original 1993 game, drawing inspiration from slowly launched projectiles from iconic enemies like Imps, Kakodemons, and Hell Knights. This new chapter intensifies those encounters, featuring an array of foes that hurl fireballs, floating orbs, and energy barriers, all while straying from the traditional two-dimensional arena.




The interdimensional battlefield shimmers with energy.
Photo: ID Software

Players must navigate these new challenges as they control slower, heftier slayers of doom. Shields play a crucial defensive role against various projectiles, not only blocking attacks but also reflecting some back at their origin. Successfully countering projectile attacks catches opponents off guard and opens them up for “glorious kills.” Although brutal, these maneuvers are generally less intricate than in earlier games, often reduced to straightforward punches and kicks.

While many demons follow easily recognizable attack patterns, the most formidable adversaries engage in fierce close-range duels. These confrontations occur within expansive arenas, where smaller foes swarm around larger ones, often shielded by rows of undead minions. ID Software has introduced several innovative weapons to tackle these hellish legions, including railroad spike launchers that absorb demons and shotguns that deliver devastating close-quarter firepower.




The scale is remarkable.
Photo: ID Software

This captivating reformulation of core combat mechanics provides as much enjoyment in mastering its rhythm as it does in witnessing its destructive consequences. However, the slower pace and limited toolset may not evoke the same adrenaline rush at its peak as previous entries.

This slower pacing is amplified by the expansive design of “Dark Ages.” With 22 levels that are often open-ended, players can choose their battles and discover secrets in their preferred order. Yet, despite the impressive scale, the traversal can become monotonous, resulting in a feeling that the game may not fully capitalize on its combat potential.

https://www.youtube-nocookie.com/embed/4tk8lkmYGWQ?wmode=opaque&feature=oembed" title="DOOM: The Dark Ages | Official Trailer 1 (4K) | Coming 2025" height="480" width="854" allowfullscreen="

ID Software tries to counteract the slow tempo by incorporating diverse gameplay mechanics. Certain maps allow players to pilot a massive mech named Atlan, delivering impactful punches to colossal demons, while others introduce aerial maneuvers atop dragons. While these elements bring novelty, they tend to lack significant depth, recalling the mandatory vehicle sections prevalent in early 2000s shooters.

Nonetheless, I appreciate the experimental nature of “Dark Ages.” The developers seem committed to exploring new directions, striving not to rely solely on past successes like some other franchises. Their goal appears to be redefining shooter mechanics with every new release. While “Dark Ages” may not reach the heights of previous ID Software titles, it remains a well-crafted and thoughtfully designed shooter that delivers heavy hitting moments.

“DOOM: The Dark Ages” is set to launch on May 15th, priced at £70.

Source: www.theguardian.com

MicroStrategy’s Bold Investment in Bitcoin Sends Stock Price Soaring

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I
In the summer of 2020, amidst the disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic on economies worldwide, an overlooked American software company made a bold decision to diversify. MicroStrategy, located near a shopping mall and subway station in Tysons Corner, Virginia, felt that its traditional “software-as-a-service” business was not daring enough.

Instead, the company announced its plans to broaden its horizons by investing up to $250 million in alternative assets, including stocks, bonds, commodities like gold, digital assets such as Bitcoin, and other types of assets.

Fast forward less than five years later, and the sideline in Bitcoin has propelled MicroStrategy to new heights. The company’s stock price has skyrocketed by 20 times, pushing its market capitalization to nearly $75 billion, with its stock entering the Nasdaq 100 index of leading technology companies.

Co-founder and chairman Michael Saylor took a risk to embrace digital currencies after Donald Trump’s election victory, despite concerns about potential threats from volatile crypto prices. MicroStrategy has now become a preferred choice among UK investors as the token’s value has surged.

Saylor’s strategic vision transformed the company into the world’s first “Bitcoin treasury company.” MicroStrategy’s relentless pursuit involves a cycle where issuing bonds to purchase Bitcoin drives up MSTR stock prices, leading to more bond offerings to acquire additional Bitcoin.

Interestingly, Saylor likened Bitcoin to Manhattan real estate in 1650 and emphasized the company’s commitment to quarterly Bitcoin acquisitions.

Critics argue that Manhattan real estate provides stable rental income and potential property value appreciation. However, Saylor focuses on BTC yield, a key metric tracked by MicroStrategy to monitor the ratio of Bitcoin holdings to the company’s stock.

While some may feel they missed the boat with Bitcoin reaching $100,000 in December, Saylor confidently stated that he would buy $1 billion worth of Bitcoin daily even at that price.

Portfolio manager Michael Lebowitz criticized MicroStrategy for essentially “ripping off investors,” citing increased optimism about Bitcoin and heightened stock price volatility.

MicroStrategy’s financial results showed a decline in total revenue and a significant increase in net losses in the third quarter of 2024. Despite this, the company became the top stock choice for UK investors through Interactive Investor.

By the end of December, MicroStrategy had invested $27.9 billion to acquire a total of 446,400 Bitcoins. This represented around 2% of the total Bitcoin supply and was valued at approximately $42 billion at that time.


This strategic approach significantly boosted MicroStrategy’s stock price by almost 400% in 2024, with Bitcoin’s value doubling within that year.

MicroStrategy’s inclusion in the Nasdaq 100 index was expected to accelerate the flywheel effect, as index-tracking ETFs would automatically purchase the company’s stock. This move was likened to Bitcoin entering the Nasdaq by industry analysts.

However, investors who bought in November might have witnessed a drop in value, as MicroStrategy’s stock price surged by 58% in November but declined over 20% in December.

In October, MicroStrategy unveiled plans to issue $21 billion in stock and bonds over the next three years to fund further Bitcoin acquisitions.


Shortly before Christmas, the company sought approval from shareholders to issue billions of additional shares, significantly increasing the number of Class A common stock.

MicroStrategy has become an attractive option for investors seeking exposure to Bitcoin without directly owning the cryptocurrency. Shares can be held through various accounts like Roth IRAs or ISAs.

Industry experts view MicroStrategy as a “Bitcoin agency,” catering to risk-tolerant investors seeking exposure to the cryptocurrency. The significant surge in Bitcoin prices, especially during specific periods, has further fueled interest in the company.

An essential component of MicroStrategy’s strategy involves issuing convertible debt with minimal or no interest payments. These instruments provide investors exposure to Bitcoin by converting into stock if the company’s value surges.

In December, MicroStrategy sold $3 billion in convertible notes without interest, convertible into stock at a premium above the stock price on the sale date.

Lebowitz cautioned that convertible note holders would profit only if the company’s stock price exceeds the conversion price upon maturity, potentially missing out on interest payments elsewhere.

MicroStrategy’s heavy reliance on Bitcoin holdings has led to the company being dubbed a leveraged Bitcoin holder, carrying significant risks in case of a market downturn.

Before embracing Bitcoin, Saylor faced a significant financial setback in 2000, losing billions of personal wealth in a day. MicroStrategy had to revise its earnings, leading to a steep decline in its stock price.

MicroStrategy is not alone in aspiring to benefit from the Bitcoin boom. Other players like Riot Platforms and Tesla have joined the trend, while Microsoft shareholders recently voted against adding Bitcoin to the company’s balance sheet.

Analysts have raised concerns about MicroStrategy’s vulnerability to Bitcoin price fluctuations, emphasizing the importance of Bitcoin’s sustained growth for the company’s success.

While Bitcoin enthusiasts believe in its resilience, the future of MicroStrategy’s strategy remains uncertain, particularly in the face of market volatility.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Microsoft Surface Pro 11 Review: Microsoft’s Bold Move into Arm Technology Shows Promise

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The latest Surface tablet from Microsoft is expected to bring significant improvements, moving beyond just being faster, quieter, and more efficient. The key change is the switch to an Arm-based processor at its core.

This shift to Arm chips is not new for Microsoft, but this particular machine, the Surface Pro 11, has been touted as the most successful one yet, outperforming its predecessors like the Surface Pro X from 2020 and Surface Pro 9 5G from last year.

Powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chipset, the Surface Pro 11 offers improved performance and efficiency. While the new Arm chips offer advantages, there are still some compromises in terms of software and accessories.

The exterior of the new Surface Pro remains largely unchanged from its predecessor. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

Despite the new chip, the Surface Pro 11 retains key features that made its predecessor successful, including a robust built-in kickstand, high-quality aluminum frame, improved speakers, and faster Windows Hello facial recognition. The 13-inch OLED display on the high-end model is top-notch, offering an exceptional viewing experience.

However, the Surface Pro 11 comes at a premium price, starting at £1,049 (€1,199/$999/AU$1,899) without the keyboard. The higher-end model with an OLED screen and faster Snapdragon X Elite chip is even pricier, starting at £1,549 (€1,799/$1,499/AU$2,699).

The Flex Keyboard continues to function even when detached, offering versatility for users. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Surface Pro 11 works well as a tablet, but a detachable keyboard is essential for maximizing its potential as a laptop. Microsoft offers various keyboard options, including the high-end Flex keyboard priced at £340.

Specification

  • Screen: 13″ LCD or OLED 2880×1920 (267 PPI) 120Hz

  • Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus or X Elite

  • RAM: 16 or 32 GB

  • Storage: 256, 512GB or 1TB

  • Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno

  • Operating System: Windows 11 Home

  • Camera: 10.5MP rear, 12.2MP front, Windows Hello

  • Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, 2 x USB-4, Surface Connect

  • Size: 287 x 209 x 9.3mm

  • Weight: 895g (without keyboard)

Snapdragon Power

The tablet includes two USB4 ports and a Surface Connect port for charging and accessories, but lacks a headphone jack. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The transition to the Arm-based Snapdragon X Elite chip offers improved efficiency and performance over traditional Intel chips. Performance comparisons have shown promising results, with the Surface Pro 11 performing on par with top Intel chips and Apple’s M1.

In everyday use, the Surface Pro 11 is fast and responsive, running quietly most of the time. Battery life is comparable to its Intel-powered predecessor, lasting around 8 hours. However, under heavy workloads, the Surface Pro 11 with Snapdragon X Elite chip offers better battery life.

While many apps have been updated to work well on the new chip, there are still compatibility issues for some legacy software, resulting in slower performance. Additionally, certain Windows apps and games may not work at all on the new system, highlighting the need for further updates from software developers.

Paint’s Cocreator uses AI to enhance manual drawing, helping you turn rough outlines into impressive works of art. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Surface Pro 11 also introduces new AI tools from Microsoft, such as Paint’s Cocreator system, offering unique creative capabilities. While these features add value, some AI functions may be limited by current implementation.

Sustainability

The tablet’s removable SSD is accessible through a small door on the back. Photo: Samuel Gibbs/The Guardian

The Surface Pro 11 demonstrates Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability, with 72% recycled materials incorporated into its design, including aluminum and rare earth metals. The company also offers repair services and recycling programs for old devices, contributing to a more environmentally-friendly approach.

Price

Starting prices for the Microsoft Surface Pro 11 range from £1,049 (€1,199/$999/AU$1,899) for the base model with Snapdragon X Plus and an LCD screen. The higher-end model with Snapdragon X Elite and an OLED screen starts at £1,549 (€1,799/$1,499/AU$2,699).

Keyboard options are available starting at £139.99 (€159.99 / $139.99 / AU$239.95), with the premium Flex keyboard priced at £340.

Verdict

The Surface Pro 11 raises the bar for Arm-based Windows tablets, offering a sleek, powerful, and quiet device. However, app compatibility remains a crucial factor in determining the overall user experience.

While the performance is commendable, the Surface Pro 11 falls short in delivering promised battery life improvements. The premium features like the OLED screen and Flex keyboard come at a steep price, which may deter some potential buyers.

Although Arm chips show promise for lightweight devices, issues with app compatibility and AI features indicate that there’s still work to be done to fully embrace this technology.

Strong Points: Great 120Hz OLED screen, impressive performance, quiet operation, USB4 connectivity, high-quality build, removable SSD, easy repairability.

Cons: High price, lack of included keyboard, app and accessory compatibility issues with Arm chips, absence of USB-A port, microSD card slot, or headphone jack, underwhelming AI features.

Source: www.theguardian.com

Reclaiming the Stolen: Looty’s Bold Mission to Return the Rosetta Stone

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ILast March, two men in tracksuits, hockey masks and matching laundry bags headed to the British Museum. Just outside, police on patrol asked two strange-looking men where they were going. “We’re going to the British Museum to loot the stolen goods,” one of them said. “See you there then!” replied the policewoman.

However, no arrests were made as nothing incriminating occurred. What actually happened was that one of the British Museum’s most famous objects, an artifact that, according to Egyptologist Monica Hanna, is a “symbol of Western cultural power” and “a symbol of British imperialism,” Rosetta’s “digital It was a robbery. stone.

The robbers, along with Hanna, who they had invited with them, went to the exhibit room where the stone monument was displayed and created a detailed 3D scan of it on an iPad. This effectively provided “looters” with a completely legal digital copy of the 196 BC artifact. But their goal is not just to digitize the Rosetta Stone, but to use location-based augmented reality technology (or geo-AR) to locate the Rosetta Stone in its place of origin, Rashid (or Rosetta) in Egypt. The idea was to return the images to local people and make them available for viewing. Send objects from your smartphone.

The two men behind the masks were Chidi Nwaubani and Ahmed Abokor, London-based product designers and creative consultants, respectively. Together they are booty, a radical “artist” collective and technology company founded in 2021, whose purpose is to “loot” cultural artifacts stolen from museums. First, we 3D scan them and then share them as enhanced digital artwork through non-fungible tokens (NFTs).

Because NFTs provide public proof of ownership of digital files, Looty’s method of “stealing” and redistributing works of art is connected to the lack of transparency often associated with institutions founded in colonial times. The aim is to challenge the fading of. The British Museum was embroiled in a scandal in August last year, when it was revealed that around 2,000 artefacts were stolen due to poor record-keeping, and that around half of its collection of around 8 million items had not been fully catalogued. However, the museum, which was founded in the 18th century, is once again facing scandal. public calculation.

“They’re less interested in the artifact and more concerned with the fact that they have it,” Abokor said. “Once again, it’s all about power.”

From organizing one of the main things interactive exhibit From its exhibition at the Venice Architecture Biennale last year to its installation at NFT Paris this February, Looty is taking the world of art and technology by storm. In November, they special projects department 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair. Continuing his Rosetta Stone heist project, Abokor had created a replica of the Rosetta Stone wrapped in cloth and rope. Visitors can scan the stone using the QR code included in the piece’s description, which activates an animation on their mobile phone for an augmented reality (AR) experience that shows Rosetta’s Stone in its true size and glory. became.

Nwaubani and Abokor’s partnership dates back nearly 20 years, when they met at university in London and bonded over a shared creative spirit and African heritage. Nwaubani grew up mainly around Guildford and developed her interest in technology early by “coding her games on computers with floppy discs”. However, she experienced severe racism at school and her father, a university professor from Nigeria, forced her to change schools.

Born in Somalia, Abokor was just 12 months old when his family moved to Sweden and ended up living in a refugee camp. “Having lived through war, it is ingrained in us to understand politics and know what is going on around us,” he says.

They recall that when they were young, their parents would give them an “alternative” history lesson in European museums, explaining where objects “really” came from. This helped cultivate their curiosity about Africa’s rich and often misrepresented history, and taught them that power and politics are deeply rooted in art.

Nwaubani first came up with the idea for Looty around Christmas 2020. The group is named after Queen Victoria’s Pekingese dog, which British soldiers looted from the Summer Palace in China in 1860. Read the report The results revealed that 90-95% of Africa’s cultural heritage is housed in major museums outside Africa. Inspired by the NFT boom, Nwaubani conceived the project “around the idea of ‘Can we take back something that has already been stolen?'”

The technology that helps make this concept of digital looting and repossession a reality is Lidar, a form of 3D scanning that stands for “Light Detection and Ranging” and uses eye-safe laser beams to see the world in 3D. “You can see. Lidar allows Looty to digitally record artifacts and render them in 3D. She then made them available on the blockchain as her NFTs, doing what Nwaubani describes as a “counter-imagination of the original” and cutting through the bureaucratic bureaucracy that prevents people in developing countries from seeing these works of art in person. avoid unnecessary processes.

Before Rosetta, their first project was Benin bronzes. This is another hotly debated colonial relic that dots Western museums. Looty has released a limited collection of 25 bronze NFTs based on the head of an oba (king) looted from the British Museum. 20% of each sale goes to the Looty Fund, which gives grants to young African artists, especially Nigerian artists.

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What they discovered is that the museum world is still adapting to the era of massive digitization. The British Museum says on its website that it allows 3D photography and printing of objects for non-commercial purposes and asks visitors to “exercise caution and respect” for “culturally sensitive” objects.

“When the British army attacked the Kingdom of Benin, [in 1897] There was no law prohibiting it. Otherwise, we will legislate to legalize it,” says Nwaubani. “We are now in a time where there are no laws regulating our actions.”

“And technology advances faster than the law,” Abokor added.

…

Source: www.theguardian.com

TechScape: How Labor’s Bold Manifesto Could Enhance Security in AI | Technology

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The political landscape of AI regulation became clearer when an influential Labor think tank outlined a framework for addressing the issue in the party’s manifesto.

From our story:

The policy paper, created by center-left think tank Labor Together, suggests banning specialized nudity tools that enable users to create explicit content from real images.

It also calls for developers of general AI tools and web hosting companies to take measures to prevent the creation of such harmful deepfakes.

While Labor’s proposals are not yet official party policy, they highlight the issues that Westminster technocrats believe they can rally around. (Shadow technology minister Peter Kyle has expressed interest in the proposals.)

For years, technology in the UK has been politically neutral, with all parties agreeing on the importance of supporting British technology for growth and influence. However, there have been limited efforts to go beyond this consensus.

Even as concerns about technology regulation grew, especially with the introduction of the Online Safety Act under Theresa May’s government, the debate remained technocratic rather than principled or partisan. The Labor Party pushed for specific amendments to the bill, which eventually passed without significant opposition.

The most notable opposition to the bill came from within the Conservative Party, with one faction attempting to ban acts that they deemed as “hurtful.” This was partially due to provisions in the bill aimed at replacing the outdated “malicious communications” offense with more specific crimes.

However, the current proposals by Labor, such as banning nudity tools, may face opposition from the Conservatives, showcasing the differing concerns of the two parties on AI issues. While the Conservative Party, led by Rishi Sunak, focuses on existential risks from Silicon Valley, Labor is more concerned with exploitation risks.

“MrDeepFakes does not represent technology”


Security China’s AI robot booth. Photo: Florence Lo/Reuters

In discussing this article with authors Kirsty Innes and Laurel Boxall, the expected disagreement was notable. “Analog conservatives lack rapid response in this area. They view AI as a ‘mutant algorithm’ or a Silicon Valley novelty that can be scaled without regard for its impact on workers,” said Innes. “It took seven years to pass the Online Safety Act through Congress, but the world has changed since then.”

“We need to move beyond the dichotomy of supporting innovation versus protecting public interest – government versus business,” added Innes. “Most tech companies want their tools used for positive purposes. They recognize the issue, but MrDeepFakes does not represent the tech industry. Therefore, they are likely to support us on this matter.”

The policy document also suggests more flexible regulations for various technology sectors supporting AI. Web hosts, search engines, and payment platforms would be required to prevent the creation of “harmful deepfakes” under threat of fines from Ofcom. Critics may argue that such policies could stifle innovation, potentially leading platforms to ban all deepfake tools deemed “harmful.”

According to a survey by Control AI, the UK public overwhelmingly supports a ban on deepfakes, with 86% expressing their approval – higher than in other countries like Italy (74%).

Deepfakes, “cheapfakes” and AI elections – join us live


Real news vs. fake news: Is AI a threat to democracy? Composite: Guardian/Getty Images

Another proposal in the paper suggests that major political parties abstain from using AI to create misleading content in their campaigns for the next nine months, as a pledge. However, the feasibility and sustainability of such a commitment amidst the UK’s political environment remain uncertain.

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I’ll be hosting a Guardian Live event next month on the impact of AI on elections, where experts like Katie Harvath from Anchor Change and Imran Ahmed from the Center to Counter Digital Hate will discuss the implications of generative AI on the electoral process involving 2 billion voters.

While deepfakes and AI-generated misinformation are expected to play a role in campaigns, the extent to which they will be used remains uncertain. Are fake images and videos a significant shift in misinformation, or are they a continuation of existing deceptive practices?

What concerns me more is how new technologies will impact an already fragile public sphere. With social media platforms making changes, the direction of political discourse is unclear. Where are conversations headed, and how will campaigning evolve in this changing landscape?

Robotics


A humanoid robot from robot AI company Figure will do laundry for you. Photo: Figure.ai

I don’t usually share YouTube videos, but Figure’s latest demo is too cool to miss. Watch the video.

Although prediction season is over, I predict that chatbots in 2022 will be like robots in 2024.

Robotics, historically challenging and costly, is being revolutionized by advances in AI. Training systems in simulated environments, enabling natural language commands, and controlling physical bodies may lead to rapid progress akin to that seen in large-scale language models in recent years.

It appears that this transformation is already underway.

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Source: www.theguardian.com