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Nvidia CEO says don’t give up learning new skills — just maybe leave programming to AI

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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has clarified comments he made about the supposed “death of coding”.

Huang had been criticized in the past for saying on several occasions that as AI platforms would soon be doing a lot of the heavy lifting when it comes to coding, young people today should not necessarily consider learning it as a vital skill.

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Entertainment

Friends don’t let friends use an AI STI test

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Picture the scene: Your date has gone well and you and your partner might sleep together. Like any safe adult, you assume there will be a conversation about STI status and the use of protection. Now imagine how you would feel if they asked to take a photo of your penis and upload it to a website you’ve never heard of. That’s the future of intimacy, as imagined by Calmara, a new service launched by “men’s health” startup HeHealth.

Banner image from the top of the HeHealth website describing Calmara.ai as as Banner image from the top of the HeHealth website describing Calmara.ai as as

HeHealth Website

Its press release suggests users take a picture of their partner’s penis so it can be run through a deep learning model for visual signs of sexually-transmitted infections. And while the website suggests users should wear protection, a banner atop the HeHealth sites describes the app as “Your intimate bestie for unprotected sex.” Mixed messages aside, you may notice some major issues with the pitch: That this only covers infections that present visually, and that it’s only designed to work with penises.

But even if that use case applies, you might not feel you can trust its conclusions once you’ve looked at the data. The Calmara website claims its scans are up to 90 percent accurate, saying its AI has been “battle-tested by over 40,000 users.” That figure doesn’t match up to its press release, which says accuracy reaches 94.4 percent (a figure cited in this NSFW preprint paper submitted a week ago), but its FAQ says the accuracy ranges “from 65 percent to 96 percent across various conditions.” We’ve reached out to the company and want to learn more about the apparent discrepancy.

Image of the Calmara website showing its claim of Image of the Calmara website showing its claim of

Calmara

It’s not impossible for models to categorize visual information — I reported on how systems like these look at images of cells to aid drug discovery. But there are plenty of reasons as to why visual information isn’t going to be as reliable for an STI test. After all, plenty of conditions don’t have visual symptoms and carriers can often be asymptomatic long after infection. The company admits to this in its FAQ, saying that the app is a “first line of defense, not a full-on fortress.” Not to mention that other factors, like the “lighting, the particular health quirks you’re scouting for and a rainbow of skin tones might tweak those [accuracy] numbers a bit.” Even more alarming, the unpublished paper (which is riddled with typos) admits that a full 40 percent of its training dataset is comprised of “augmented” images, for instance “extracting specific visually recognizable disease patterns from the existing clinical image dataset and layering those patterns on top of images of health (sic) penises.”

Image from the Calmara FAQ highlighting the variability of its tests.Image from the Calmara FAQ highlighting the variability of its tests.

Calmara

The Calmara website’s disclaimer says that its tools are for the purpose of “promoting and supporting general wellness and a healthy lifestyle and are not to be used to diagnose, cure, treat, manage or prevent any disease or condition.” Of course, if it really was intended as a general wellness tool, it probably wouldn’t describe itself as “Your intimate bestie for unprotected sex,” would it.

It doesn’t help that this is a system asking users to send pictures of their, or their partner’s genitalia. Issues around consent and — as writer Ella Dawson raised on Bluesky — age verification, don’t seem to have been considered. The company’s promises that the data is locked in a “digital stronghold” lacks specifics about its security approach or how the data it obtains may be shared. But that hasn’t stopped the company from suggesting that it could, in future, be integrated “directly into dating apps.”

Fundamentally, there are so many red flags and potential vectors for abuse and giving users a false sense of confidence that nobody should try using it.

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Don’t confuse the power of AR with the limitations of VR

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Anyone criticizing Apple Vision Pro as a Meta Quest at seven times the price misses the profound difference between the two headsets. Apple made an augmented reality device, while Meta focused on virtual reality.

And the basic distinction between the two is that AR is the future of computing while VR will always be much more limited.

Both Apple and Meta seem to realize this, which is why their devices support AR and VR. The difference comes down to which one the rivals focus on, and that’s where Apple has the advantage.

Why augmented reality has so much potential

To understand the difference in focus between Vision Pro and Meta Quest, you have to know what augmented reality and virtual reality are. AR overlays computer-generated images or text onto the real world. It’s real life, but better. It’s different from virtual reality, which completely replaces the real world with a computer-generated alternative.

With AR, you’re in your office working with multiple applications on large virtual screens that are projected in front of you. Or perhaps you’re meeting with an old friend who’s been digitally added to your living room. For more possibilities, read my article on why Vision Pro gives a first look at computers of 2034.

With VR, you’re deeply immersed in the game you’re playing, to the point where it’s seemingly all around you. Or you’re watching a movie on a giant screen.

If the differences between the two seen seem somewhat narrow, that’s because you can think of virtual reality as taking one of the windows created by augmented reality and expanding it until it’s all you can see. In other words, VR is a special case of AR.

And user preference leans heavily towards AR. While there are times one wants to be completely focused on a game or a movie, the rest of the time a VR headset feels extremely isolating. With AR, the computer screens are around you, and so are your normal surroundings, including your friends or co-workers.

Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest: A profound difference in focus

Apple Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest 3 hardware
Vision Pro users can look at the people around them but Meta Quest users are in their own reality.
Photo: Ed Hardy/Cult of Mac

Comparisons between Vision Pro and Meta Quest are understandable because at first glance the devices seem quite similar. The difference is, as noted, the focus. The emphasis the headsets put on either AR or VR is the defining distinction.

Apple created a headset designed from the beginning for augmented reality. It can do VR games and movies, too, but that’s not its focus. It’s a multipurpose computer for home or office that uses AR instead of a traditional screen.

In contrast, recent Meta headsets are VR devices with AR capabilities tacked on. The original Quest came out in 2019. And the third-gen model — the first with significant AR support — only arrived a few months ago.

Facebook changed its name to Meta because of its intent to create the metaverse: a VR world. That doesn’t leave any doubt about the focus of Quest devices.

It’s the difference in focus on AR or VR that’s going to be critical for the long-term success — or failure — of each headset.

Predicting the future by looking at the past

AR and VR are still relatively new technologies. A way to predict their future is to look back into the history of computers.

In the 1970s and 1980s, one could buy a word processor: a hardware device with a keyboard, usually a screen, and built-in printer focused on a single task. Alternatively, one could buy a multi-use computer, including the early Macintosh, and do word processing on it.

By the 1980s, the word processor became the much, much more affordable option. Meanwhile, those early desktop computers still seemed kind of clumsy. The single-focus devices sold quite well.

Theoretically, the makers of word processors could have kept adding functions to the devices, like a spreadsheet application, and could have morphed into the computers we use today – but that’s not what happened. Instead, those single-use devices became a historical footnote.

I hope the analogy is obvious: Vision Pro is the original Macintosh, while Quest headsets are like those word-processing devices. And if history repeats itself, the VR-focused headsets will be forgotten, while AR-focused ones will grow to become the standard computers of the future.

It’s possible that Meta will realize the metaverse is a distraction and refocus Quest on AR, not just tack on the feature. But the company needs to do so soon, as the Android-based operating system it’s using now is way behind Apple’s visionOS.

Vision Pro vs. Meta Quest: Today and tomorrow

Some people will likely disagree with me when I say that Meta Quest is more isolating, considering that some critics complain that Vision Pro is also isolating. Even some fans refer to being “inside” the device.

This is a result of the product being essentially a prototype that, unfortunately, blocks the user’s peripheral vision. Future Vision versions will solve this problem, to the point where the AR headset interferes with peripheral vision no more than a regular pair of glasses does.

But this raises an important point. Although both Apple’s Vision platform and visionOS have enormous potential, it’ll be years before that potential is fully realized. That makes the $3,500 Vision Pro a tough sell today. In the meantime, the Meta Quest 3 is a fine platform for playing VR games and costs only $500.

But 10 years from now, I have no doubt the future Apple Vision AR glasses will be in mainstream use. I’m not nearly so confident that Meta’s Quest line will even still be on the market.



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Don’t be afraid of AI on your next Pixel or Galaxy, it’s not really a big deal yet

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My Dad has a Galaxy S22, and he’s perfectly content, but it’s time for him to upgrade. He’s paid off the phone with Verizon and they owe him a new one. I suggested an iPhone 15, for my own sanity as his tech support, but he’s staying loyal to Samsung, so I offered to help him set up a Galaxy S24. He refused. That phone has AI, he says, and he doesn’t want an AI phone. I get it, but I’m here with news that AI has been greatly exaggerated. There is nothing to worry about when it comes to AI on your phone. 

Actually, there is no artificial intelligence (AI) on your phone. I’ll tip my hat to Samsung on this one, they have been calling their new features “advanced intelligence,” and that’s an apt distinction. If you have concern over general AI and what it means to the future of humanity, I can assure you that your concept of AI does not come close to what you’ll find on a smartphone today. 

Google Pixel 8 Pro

Do you see artificial intelligence in this phone? Nope (Image credit: Google)

Before I get into what AI on a smartphone really is, let’s put away concerns. AI is not going to make decisions for you, not in any way. It won’t make phone calls, or send text messages. It won’t change anything, you still make all the changes.

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Sam Altman is back on the OpenAI board. We still don’t know why he was fired.

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Sam Altman on the board of OpenAI, nearly four months after the CEO was ousted, and quickly reinstated, from the company he founded. Although Altman had returned as the AI company’s top executive in November, a temporary board oversaw his return and the subsequent investigation into his conduct.

That investigation is now complete, according to the company, which added three new members to its board of directors. The additions include: Instacart CEO and former Meta executive Fidji Simo, former Sony executive Nicole Seligman and Dr. Sue Desmond-Hellmann, former CEO of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Salesforce co-CEO Bret Taylor, economist Larry Summers and OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman, who served on the temporary three-seat board, will remain in their positions with Taylor continuing as chair.

The announcement caps off a tumultuous several months for the AI company, which by Altman’s abrupt ouster last fall.

On Friday, OpenAI also published a summary of the findings from WilmerHale, a law firm that the company’s board retained in December 2023 to conduct an independent investigation into the events that led to Altman’s firing. Despite that, however, we’re no closer to finding out exactly why Altman, who rejoined the company as CEO within five days, was fired to begin with.

“WilmerHale [found] that the prior Board’s decision did not arise out of concerns regarding product safety or security, the pace of development, OpenAI’s finances, or its statements to investors, customers, or business partners,” the summary said. “Instead, it was a consequence of a breakdown in the relationship and loss of trust between the prior Board and Mr. Altman.” WilmerHale also concluded that OpenAI’s previous board fired Altman abruptly without giving notice to “key stakeholders”, and without giving Altman an opportunity to respond to its concerns.

To come to this conclusion, the firm reviewed more than 30,000 documents and conducted dozens of interviews with OpenAI staffers including previous board members over the last few months.

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Don’t Fear the Robot: Taming ChatGPT and Making It Work for You

ChatGPT

The rise of large language models like ChatGPT has ignited a firestorm of both fascination and fear. We marvel at their ability to generate human-quality text, translate languages in real-time, and even write poetry. But alongside the awe comes a gnawing anxiety about the potential for these AI behemoths to usurp our jobs, stifle creativity, and even manipulate us.

Before we lose ourselves in dystopian fantasies, however, it’s crucial to remember that technology, like any tool, is ultimately wielded by human hands. ChatGPT, for all its sophistication, remains a powerful instrument waiting to be orchestrated. And just like any orchestra, the quality of the performance depends entirely on the skill and intent of the conductor.

So, how do we, the mere mortals of the digital age, tame this linguistic leviathan and make it work for us? Here’s a roadmap to harnessing the power of ChatGPT without succumbing to its potential pitfalls:

1. Know Your AI Tool

Before you unleash ChatGPT on your creative endeavors, take some time to understand its strengths and weaknesses. It’s a master of mimicry, capable of replicating existing writing styles with uncanny accuracy. But don’t expect it to conjure groundbreaking ideas or spark profound originality. Think of it as a highly skilled wordsmith, not a visionary novelist.

2. Prime the Pump

ChatGPT thrives on prompts – the initial instructions that guide its output. The more specific and thoughtful your prompts, the higher the quality of the results. Instead of asking for “a poem about love,” try “a sonnet depicting the bittersweet memories of a lost love.” The more detail you provide, the better ChatGPT can tailor its response to your vision.

3. Edit with a Keen Eye

Remember, ChatGPT is still a machine, albeit a very eloquent one. Its output will inevitably contain errors, factual inaccuracies, and even occasional nonsensical passages. Approach its creations with a discerning eye, ready to wield your red pen with surgical precision. This collaborative editing process is where the true magic happens, as you blend your human touch with the model’s computational power.

4. Embrace the Remix

Don’t let ChatGPT replace your own creativity. Instead, think of it as a playful collaborator, a brainstorming partner that can spark new ideas and offer unexpected twists on your own concepts. Use its suggestions as jumping-off points, not finished products. Take its generated paragraphs, poems, or scripts and mold them into something uniquely your own.

5. Fact-Check, Fact-Check, Fact-Check

ChatGPT, like any language model, is only as reliable as the data it’s trained on. Remember, the internet is a vast and messy place, and misinformation runs rampant. Always double-check any factual claims generated by the model, especially when dealing with sensitive topics like science, history, or current events.

6. Use it Ethically

With great power comes great responsibility. As powerful as ChatGPT is, it can also be misused. Don’t let it become a tool for plagiarism, misinformation, or manipulation. Use it for creative expression, education, and open-minded exploration, and remember that every keystroke you input shapes the outcome.

Summary

Beyond these practical tips, it’s important to remember that the relationship between humans and AI is still evolving. ChatGPT is just one step in a long journey of technological advancement, and our fear or fascination with it is a reflection of our own anxieties about the future. Instead of fearing the robot, let’s embrace the opportunity to learn from it, collaborate with it, and push the boundaries of what language can achieve together.

So, the next time you find yourself staring at the blinking cursor on your screen, don’t be intimidated by the possibilities that ChatGPT presents. Take a deep breath, summon your inner conductor, and start composing your digital symphony. With a little practice and a lot of human ingenuity, you’ll be surprised at the beauty and harmony you can create with this powerful linguistic machine. After all, the future of language is not a battle between humans and machines, but a duet where both voices blend to create something truly remarkable.

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Don’t Ignore Your Dryer Vents! How Professional Cleaners Improve Home Safety

Maintaining a safe and hazard-free home is a top priority for every homeowner. While we often pay attention to visible safety concerns, such as electrical wiring or smoke detectors, we may overlook a hidden yet equally significant threat – clogged dryer vents. Dryer vent cleaning is a crucial aspect of home maintenance that ensures not only the efficiency of your appliances but also the safety of your household. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of hiring professional dryer vent cleaners in Nashville, TN, and Brentwood, TN, to safeguard your home and loved ones.

Understanding the Risk of Clogged Dryer Vents

Many homeowners underestimate the potential hazards associated with clogged dryer vents. Over time, lint, debris, and even bird nests can accumulate within the ducts, restricting airflow. This restricted airflow can lead to overheating, causing your dryer to work harder and increasing the risk of a fire. Preventing such disasters should be a top priority, and that’s where professional dryer duct cleaning in Nashville, TN, comes into play.

Efficiency and Energy Savings

Apart from the safety aspect, keeping your dryer vents clean can significantly improve the efficiency of your appliance. By availing the services of experienced dryer vent cleaners in Brentwood, TN, you can not only extend the lifespan of your dryer but also save money in the long run through improved energy efficiency.

Prolonging the Life of Your Dryer

The accumulation of lint and debris not only poses a fire hazard but can also cause wear and tear on your dryer’s components. A clogged dryer vent puts unnecessary strain on the motor, heating element, and other vital parts, leading to premature breakdowns and costly repairs. Regular professional cleaning ensures that your dryer operates smoothly and extends its lifespan, sparing you the hassle of premature replacements.

The Expertise of Professional Dryer Vent Cleaners

While DIY cleaning methods may seem tempting, they often fall short in removing the deep-seated lint and debris within the ducts. Professional dryer vent cleaners in Nashville, TN, have the expertise, specialized tools, and industry knowledge to perform a thorough and effective cleaning. They can identify potential issues, such as damaged ducts or improper installations, and address them promptly, reducing the risk of future problems.

Improved Indoor Air Quality

Clogged dryer vents not only compromise safety and efficiency but also contribute to poor indoor air quality. When your dryer is unable to expel moisture and lint effectively, it can lead to a buildup of mold and mildew in the vent system. These contaminants can then be circulated throughout your home, affecting the health of your family, especially those with respiratory issues or allergies. Professional dryer duct cleaning in Brentwood, TN, eliminates these pollutants, promoting a healthier living environment.

Conclusion

Don’t wait for a disaster to strike before addressing the importance of clean dryer vents. Protect your home, loved ones, and investment in appliances by hiring professional dryer vent cleaners in Nashville, TN, and Brentwood, TN. Regular maintenance not only enhances the safety of your household but also improves dryer efficiency, saves energy, and prolongs the life of your appliance. Take action today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a safe and well-maintained home.

 

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Reasons Why You Don’t Need Your Own Office

Having an office seems to be at the center of a business a lot of the time, and it makes sense. Offices are often seen as a legitimizing business asset – it shows that someone is serious about their business and that they are reachable if needed.

That being said, there are many reasons why they are an unnecessary expense, and you might be curious as to whether you are best off losing it. Take a look here at reasons why you don’t need your own office and how you can get the same benefits in other ways.

It Stifles Flexibility

In this day and age, flexibility is a must. Many people got used to being able to do their grocery shopping during the day and not having to travel during working hours when the pandemic hit. This has only made it a lot more difficult to go back to trying to fit everything around regular work hours, just like everyone else is doing. It is not just about flexibility outside of the workplace either, but also where you might want to work. Having an office might not always mean you have to work in one place, but it will sure make you feel guilty about working anywhere else if you have paid for the luxury.

It Can Mean a Commute

Commuting is often nothing short of hellish in 2023. Everywhere is busy, and the costs of fuel are through the roof. Not only could someone be doing something else with that time, but they could also be saving money, stress, and maybe an extra 30 minutes in bed. There aren’t many people who wouldn’t choose the latter option.

Unless it is absolutely essential that you need an office, as in you need a space for people to collaborate every single day, you are better off using that money for something else.

It Can Cost a lot

Renting offices and workspaces can be a significant financial burden, especially when you have to consider that you rent or pay for your home space, too. These costs really add up and can take up a big chunk of your monthly salary alone. If you do need the benefits of an office without the expenses, then take a look at Yourcityoffice.com to see what you can enjoy for a fraction of the cost and minimal commitment. You can choose from a professional address, an office space if you need one, a phone answering service, or even a meeting room.

A Breeding Ground for Office Politics

While tone can get lost in email and cause fraught feelings, there is not much worse than being forced to work in an atmosphere that breeds contempt and doesn’t inspire productivity or creativity. It happens – people are different. They have different views, morals, and personalities, and sometimes these can clash. Not having to be in an environment that is stressful can make a world of difference to employees – especially those who are more sensitive. This also means that office politics come into play in the workload less often – so that people can focus on their tasks.

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A Guide to the Latest Tile Trends You Don’t Want to Miss

Houses in Sydney are widely diverse in their size and style. They have a mix of architectural features, including Victorian rooftops, mid-century modern houses, and contemporary architectural marvels. When it comes to designing or renovating your home, a few elements can transform a space dramatically.

Tiles are one of the most critical elements of home design. They serve a functional purpose and offer endless creativity, giving your home a unique touch. If you plan to visit a Sydney tile store, you must be aware of some of the latest designs you can consider. Whether you are planning to renovate your home or build a new house, check the following latest tile designs that can transform your space while adding character and depth:

Natural Stone Tiles

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend of incorporating natural elements into your homes, extending to tiles. Natural tiles such as marble, slate, and travertine add a natural element to the homes. It brings a warm, natural tone to your home and doesn’t make it look like a concrete jungle. Also, natural elements added to the home calm the senses, making the overall vibe of the house peaceful. These tiles’ unique pattern and organic texture bring any room a luxurious and earthy feeling. 

Moroccan Tiles

Moroccan-style tiles are often characterised by intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colours. They have become a beloved choice for people who are looking for exotic elegance. Using Morrocan-style tiles for your home is a foolproof way to add colour and character to your room, either on the floor or wall. These also look great as the backsplashes of the kitchen, as an accent wall in the living room, or even on the entire bathroom floor. 

Eco-friendly tiles

Eco-friendly tiles are great for those who are environmentally conscious. Eco-friendly building materials minimise carbon footprint significantly. For instance, recycled glass tiles are made from reclaimed glass and come in a variety of colours and styles. They can help minimise waste and are sustainable.

Additionally, eco-friendly tiles can also be made of natural and renewable materials like cork and bamboo and are gaining popularity due to their usability and environmental impact.

Textured 3D tiles

Texture is making a big entry in the tile industry. 3D tiles have a raised pattern or texture, which helps add depth and dimension to a room. These tiles can mimic natural elements such as stone or wood while offering durability and ease of maintenance. If you have a room that you feel is lacking depth and character, you can add textured tiles. Moreover, the bathroom is a corner of your house that is often overlooked, but you can create your little spa inside your bathroom by adding beautiful tiles. Tiles with 3D textures can be a great addition to the area near your wash basins as they are easy to clean but also add dimension to the plain floor.

Tiles with artistic elements

Tiles are no longer limited to their functional role. They are also gaining traction for their artistic ability to transform an ordinary space into a work of art. From hand-painted ceramic tiles to mosaic masterpieces, these artistic elements can be customised to reflect your unique taste and personality. They serve as a stunning focal point for living areas and even outdoors, adding a touch of individuality and sophistication to your home.

Japanese glazed tiles

Japanese glazed tiles are beloved for their simplicity, durability and timeless beauty. These tiles have been an integral part of Japanese architecture, and their popularity is spreading worldwide. They add an aura of sophistication and simplicity to your space, and due to their delicate glaze and natural colour variation, they have become a captivating choice for people who want to create a soothing and harmonious atmosphere.

Conclusion

The tiles you choose can really change the overall feel of your room. If you don’t want to experiment, plain white tiles are a safe option. But, if you want your home to speak about your personality, you must choose something that defines you. Eco-friendly tiles are a great choice if you stand for environmental causes. On the other hand, natural stone tiles are an excellent option if you want a rustic, earthy feeling. Further, textured, Moroccan, and Japanese glazed tiles can be a great conversation starter for your guest. Lastly, if you are an artist at heart, go for artist tiles to unleash your inner creativity.