This project showcases a hacked IKEA FADO lamp transformed into a remote-controlled "Death Star." Using an ESP32 microcontroller and a custom PCB, the lamp's brightness and the "superlaser" (a focused LED) are controllable via a web interface, MQTT, or physical buttons. The creator designed a 3D-printed mount for the laser and electronics, seamlessly integrating them into the lamp's structure. The project files, including schematics, code, and 3D models, are open-sourced on GitLab, enabling others to replicate the build.
This tutorial demonstrates building a basic text adventure game in C. It starts with a simple framework using printf and scanf for output and input, focusing on creating a game loop that processes player commands. The tutorial introduces core concepts like managing game state with variables, handling different actions (like "look" and "go") with conditional statements, and defining rooms with descriptions. It emphasizes a step-by-step approach, expanding the game's functionality by adding new rooms, objects, and interactions through iterative development. The example uses simple string comparisons to interpret player commands and a rudimentary structure to represent the game world. The tutorial prioritizes clear explanations and aims to be an accessible introduction to game programming in C.
Commenters on Hacker News largely praised the tutorial for its clear, concise, and beginner-friendly approach to C programming and game development. Several appreciated the focus on fundamental concepts and the avoidance of complex libraries, making it accessible even to those with limited C experience. Some suggested improvements like using getline() for safer input handling and adding features like saving/loading game state. The nostalgic aspect of text adventures also resonated with many, sparking discussions about classic games like Zork and the broader history of interactive fiction. A few commenters offered alternative approaches or pointed out minor technical details, but the overall sentiment was positive, viewing the tutorial as a valuable resource for aspiring programmers.
Learn-C.org offers a free, interactive C tutorial directly in your web browser. It provides a comprehensive learning path, starting with the basics of C syntax and progressing through more complex topics like pointers, memory management, and data structures. The platform features a built-in code editor and compiler, allowing users to write, run, and test their C code in real-time without needing to install any local development environment. This hands-on approach aims to make learning C more accessible and engaging for beginners.
HN users generally praised the interactive C tutorial for its accessibility and ease of use. Several commenters appreciated the browser-based nature, eliminating the need for local setup. Some highlighted the value of instant feedback and the clear explanations, making it beneficial for beginners. A few mentioned existing interactive C resources like "Programming in C" by Stephen Kochan and online compilers, comparing them to this new tutorial. One user suggested potential improvements, such as incorporating exercises and quizzes. Overall, the sentiment was positive, viewing it as a helpful tool for learning C.
Dbdiagram.io offers a simple, web-based tool for database design and modeling. It uses a text-based syntax to define tables and relationships, making it easy to version control diagrams alongside application code. The platform supports various database engines and generates SQL for implementing the designed schema. It provides a clean and visual representation of the database structure, facilitating collaboration and understanding.
Hacker News users generally praised dbdiagram.io for its simplicity and ease of use, particularly for quickly sketching out database designs. Several commenters appreciated the clean UI and the speed at which they could create and modify diagrams. Some compared it favorably to other tools like draw.io and PlantUML, highlighting its focus on database-specific design. A few users mentioned potential improvements, like adding support for more complex features and different database systems. Others pointed out the limitations of the free tier and expressed concerns about vendor lock-in with a proprietary format. One commenter suggested integrating with existing SQL workflows, while another mentioned using it successfully for small projects.
The 2025 SIGBOVIK conference proceedings showcase a collection of humorous and technically creative papers exploring unconventional and often absurd aspects of computer science. Topics range from generating Shakespearean insults with machine learning to developing a self-destructing paper airplane protocol, and analyzing the computational complexity of stacking chairs. The papers, presented with a veneer of academic rigor, embrace playful exploration of impractical ideas, highlighting the lighter side of research and the joy of creative problem-solving. While the research itself is not meant to be taken seriously, the underlying technical skills and cleverness demonstrated throughout the proceedings are genuinely impressive.
HN users generally expressed amusement and appreciation for the SIGBOVIK conference and its tradition of humorous, yet technically interesting, papers. Several commenters highlighted specific papers that caught their attention, including one about generating cooking recipes from code and another exploring the potential of AI-generated sea shanties. The absurdity of a paper analyzing the "metadata" of cave paintings also drew positive remarks. Some users reflected on the conference's history and the consistent quality of its satirical contributions to computer science. There was also a brief discussion about the challenges of discerning genuine AI-generated text from human-written parody.
Icônes is a customizable, open-source icon family featuring over 1,500 icons designed for web, mobile, and desktop applications. It offers various styles (filled, outlined, bulk), sizes, and formats (SVG, PNG, font), allowing developers to tailor the icons to their specific project needs. The project emphasizes ease of use with simple integration via CDN, NPM, or direct download, and provides tools for generating custom icon sets and optimizing performance. Icônes is free to use under the MIT license, encouraging community contributions and ensuring its long-term availability.
Hacker News users generally praised Icônes for its simplicity, open-source nature, and customizability. Several commenters appreciated the lightweight design and the ability to easily copy SVG code. Some discussed the benefits of SVG over icon fonts, citing sharper rendering and better accessibility. A few users suggested potential improvements, like adding a search bar and improving the organization. One commenter pointed out the similar project, Feather Icons, and initiated a brief comparison of the two, with others weighing in on their respective strengths and weaknesses, particularly concerning style and license. Overall, the reception was positive, with many expressing interest in using Icônes for their projects.
This blog post breaks down the typical architecture of a SQL database engine. It outlines the journey of a SQL query from initial parsing and validation, through query planning and optimization, to execution and finally, result retrieval. Key internal components discussed include the parser, validator, optimizer (utilizing cost-based optimization and heuristics), the execution engine (leveraging techniques like vectorized execution), and the storage engine responsible for data persistence and retrieval. The post emphasizes the complexity involved in processing SQL queries efficiently and the importance of each component in achieving optimal performance. It also highlights the role of indexes, transactions (including concurrency control mechanisms), and logging for data integrity and durability.
Hacker News users generally praised the DoltHub blog post for its clear and accessible explanation of SQL engine internals. Several commenters highlighted the value of the post for newcomers to databases, while others with more experience appreciated the refresher and the way it broke down complex concepts. Some discussion focused on the specific choices made in the example engine described, such as the use of a simple hash index and the lack of query optimization, with users pointing out potential improvements and alternative approaches. A few comments also touched on the broader database landscape, comparing the simplified engine to more sophisticated systems and discussing the tradeoffs involved in different design decisions.
This blog post details how to implement a simplified printf function for bare-metal environments, specifically ARM Cortex-M microcontrollers, without relying on a full operating system. The author walks through creating a minimal version that supports basic format specifiers like %c, %s, %u, %x, and %d, bypassing the complexities of a standard C library. The implementation utilizes a UART for output and includes a custom integer to string conversion function. By directly manipulating registers and memory, the post demonstrates a lightweight printf suitable for resource-constrained embedded systems.
HN commenters largely praised the article for its clear explanation of implementing printf in a bare-metal environment. Several appreciated the author's focus on simplicity and avoiding unnecessary complexity. Some discussed the tradeoffs between code size and performance, with suggestions for further optimization. One commenter pointed out the potential issues with the implementation's handling of floating-point numbers, particularly in embedded systems where floating-point support might not be available. Others offered alternative approaches, including using smaller, more specialized printf implementations or relying on semihosting for debugging. The overall sentiment was positive, with many finding the article educational and well-written.
This blog post recounts a humorous anecdote about the author's father's struggles with technology. The father, while housesitting, diligently followed the author's complex instructions for operating a sous vide cooker to prepare soft-boiled eggs. However, he misinterpreted the instructions, believing the external temperature controller was itself a cooking device, diligently placing eggs directly on top of it. The resulting mess and the father's earnest attempt to follow the confusing instructions highlight the generational gap in technological understanding and the often-comical misunderstandings that can arise.
HN users largely enjoyed the humorous and relatable anecdote about the author's father and his obsession with the "egg controller" (actually a thermostat). Several commenters shared similar stories of their own parents' technological misunderstandings, reinforcing the universal theme of generational differences in tech literacy. Some questioned the authenticity, finding it a bit too perfect, while others pointed out details like the egg controller likely being a Ranco controller, commonly used for incubators and other temperature-sensitive applications. A few expressed appreciation for the author's writing style and the heartwarming nature of the story.
The blog post explores hidden "Easter eggs" within the 8-bit BASIC interpreters Bill Gates co-authored for the Altair 8800, Apple II, and other early personal computers. These undocumented features, accessible through specific inputs or memory locations, include messages like a copyright notice listing Gates and Paul Allen, a list of developers who worked on the interpreter, and even a small game called DONKEY.BAS, which challenged players to avoid hitting donkeys with a car. The author discovered these secrets through reverse engineering and experimentation, highlighting a playful and less-known side of Gates's early programming career. The Easter eggs serve as a fascinating glimpse into the history of personal computing and the personalities behind its creation.
Several commenters on Hacker News expressed appreciation for the historical context and nostalgia surrounding Gates's Easter eggs, with some sharing personal anecdotes of discovering them in their youth. A few pointed out that these Easter eggs, alongside the overall accessibility of early BASIC interpreters, played a role in inspiring a generation of programmers. Some discussed the technical limitations of the time and how Gates cleverly worked within them to create these hidden messages. The discussion also touched upon the shift in software development culture, contrasting the playful nature of these Easter eggs with the more corporate and security-conscious environment of today. A recurring sentiment was that such personal touches are now rare in modern software. Finally, several commenters corrected some technical details in the original article, such as the actual size of the Easter egg message displayed, and the mechanisms by which they were triggered.
The University of Waterloo is withholding the results of its annual Canadian Computing Competition (CCC) due to suspected widespread cheating using AI. Hundreds of students, primarily from outside Canada, are under investigation for potentially submitting solutions generated by artificial intelligence. The university is developing new detection methods and considering disciplinary actions, including disqualification and potential bans from future competitions. This incident underscores the growing challenge of academic integrity in the age of readily available AI coding tools.
Hacker News commenters discuss the implications of AI use in coding competitions, with many expressing concern about fairness and the future of such events. Some suggest that competition organizers need to adapt, proposing proctored environments or focusing on problem-solving skills harder for AI to replicate. Others debate the efficacy of current plagiarism detection methods and whether they can keep up with evolving AI capabilities. Several commenters note the irony of computer science students using AI, highlighting the difficulty in drawing the line between utilizing tools and outright cheating. Some dismiss the incident as unsurprising given the accessibility of AI tools, while others are more pessimistic about the integrity of competitive programming going forward. There's also discussion about the potential for AI to be a legitimate learning tool and how education might need to adapt to its increasing prevalence.
The True Size Of is a web tool that allows users to visually compare the actual size of countries by dragging and dropping them onto different locations on a world map. It demonstrates how map projections, particularly the commonly used Mercator projection, distort the relative sizes of landmasses, especially those closer to the poles, making countries like Greenland appear much larger than they are in relation to countries nearer the equator. The tool aims to provide a more accurate perception of global geography and correct misconceptions about country sizes.
Hacker News users discuss the usefulness of the True Size Of website for visualizing the true size of countries, often distorted by traditional map projections. Several commenters point out its educational value, especially for children, in understanding geographical size and challenging preconceived notions. Some highlight specific examples of surprising size comparisons, such as Greenland and Africa, or the ability to overlay countries on top of each other for direct comparison. A few users raise concerns about the Mercator projection being presented as inherently bad, arguing that it serves a specific purpose for navigation, while others suggest alternative map projections that offer different perspectives. There's also a thread discussing the technical implementation of the website, including the projection used and potential improvements.
Stuffed-Na(a)N is a JavaScript library designed to help debug the common problem of NaN values propagating through calculations. It effectively "stuffs" NaN values with stack traces, allowing developers to easily pinpoint the origin of the initial NaN. When a calculation involving a stuffed NaN occurs, the resulting NaN carries forward the original stack trace. This eliminates the need for tedious debugging processes, making it easier to quickly identify and fix the source of unexpected NaN values in complex JavaScript applications.
Hacker News commenters generally found the stuffed-naan-js library clever and amusing. Several appreciated the humorous approach to handling NaN values, with one suggesting it as a good April Fool's Day prank. Some discussed potential performance implications and the practicality of using such a library in production code, acknowledging its niche use case. Others pointed out the potential for debugging confusion if used without careful consideration. A few commenters delved into alternative NaN-handling strategies and the underlying representation of NaN in floating-point numbers. The overall sentiment was positive, with many praising the creativity and lightheartedness of the project.
The author reflects on the unexpected kindness of strangers encountered while traveling with an inflatable duck. They recount numerous instances where people, from TSA agents to fellow travelers, good-naturedly accommodated the oversized inflatable, holding it, watching over it, and even offering it a seat. This simple act of carrying the duck sparked unexpected connections and moments of shared laughter, highlighting the human capacity for spontaneous generosity and the power of lightheartedness to break down social barriers. Ultimately, the inflatable duck became a symbol of these positive interactions, a reminder of the shared humanity that can be found even in fleeting encounters.
Hacker News users largely enjoyed the whimsical and absurdist humor of the "Thank You For Holding My Duck" post. Several commenters praised the creativity and unexpectedness of the piece, finding it a refreshing break from typical online content. Some saw deeper meaning, interpreting the duck as a metaphor for various burdens or responsibilities people carry. A few pointed out similarities to the works of Douglas Adams and other humorists known for their surreal and often philosophical bent. Technical aspects, such as the seamless scrolling and responsive design of the website, were also mentioned favorably. Overall, the comments reflect a positive reception to the post, appreciating its lightheartedness and clever execution.
Facebook researchers have introduced Modality-Independent Large-Scale models (MILS), demonstrating that large language models can process and understand information from diverse modalities like audio and images without requiring explicit training on those specific data types. By leveraging the rich semantic representations learned from text, MILS can directly interpret image pixel values and audio waveform amplitudes as if they were sequences of tokens, similar to text. This suggests a potential pathway towards truly generalist AI models capable of seamlessly integrating and understanding information across different modalities.
Hacker News users discussed the implications of Meta's ImageBind, which allows LLMs to connect various modalities (text, image/video, audio, depth, thermal, and IMU data) without explicit training on those connections. Several commenters expressed excitement about the potential applications, including robotics, accessibility features, and richer creative tools. Some questioned the practical utility given the computational cost and raised concerns about the potential for misuse, such as creating more sophisticated deepfakes. Others debated the significance of the research, with some arguing it's a substantial step towards more general AI while others viewed it as an incremental improvement over existing techniques. A few commenters highlighted the lack of clear explanations of the emergent behavior and called for more rigorous evaluation.
Simon Willison's blog post showcases the unsettling yet fascinating capabilities of O3, a new location identification tool. By analyzing seemingly insignificant details within photos, like the angle of sunlight, vegetation, and distant landmarks, O3 can pinpoint a picture's location with remarkable accuracy. Willison demonstrates this by feeding O3 his own photos, revealing the tool's ability to deduce locations from obscure clues, sometimes even down to the specific spot on a street. This power evokes a sense of both wonder and unease, highlighting the potential for privacy invasion while showcasing a significant leap in image analysis technology.
Hacker News users discussed the implications of Simon Willison's blog post demonstrating a tool that accurately guesses photo locations based on seemingly insignificant details. Several expressed awe at the technology's power while also feeling uneasy about privacy implications. Some questioned the long-term societal impact of such readily available location identification, predicting increased surveillance and a chilling effect on photography. Others pointed out potential positive applications, such as verifying image provenance or aiding historical research. A few commenters focused on technical aspects, discussing potential countermeasures like blurring details or introducing noise, while others debated the ethical responsibilities of developers creating such tools. The overall sentiment leaned towards cautious fascination, acknowledging the impressive technical achievement while recognizing its potential for misuse.
A hobby operating system, RetrOS-32, built from scratch, is now functional on a vintage IBM ThinkPad. Written primarily in C and some assembly, it supports a 32-bit protected mode environment, features a custom kernel, and boasts a simple command-line interface. Currently, functionalities include keyboard input, text-based screen output, and disk access, with the developer aiming to eventually expand to a graphical user interface and more advanced features. The project, RetrOS-32, is available on GitHub and showcases a passion for low-level programming and operating system development.
Hacker News users generally expressed enthusiasm for the RetrOS-32 project, praising the author's dedication and the impressive feat of creating a hobby OS. Several commenters reminisced about their own experiences with older hardware and OS development. Some discussed the technical aspects of the project, inquiring about the choice of programming language (C) and the possibility of adding features like protected mode or multitasking. A few users expressed interest in contributing to the project. There was also discussion about the challenges and rewards of working with older hardware, with some users sharing their own experiences and advice.
Freshpaint, a Y Combinator S19 company specializing in customer data infrastructure, is hiring remote backend and frontend engineers based in the US. They are building a product that helps companies collect, manage, and activate their customer data, aiming to simplify the complex process of data integration. Experience with data-intensive applications and distributed systems is desired for backend roles, while frontend positions require proficiency in modern Javascript frameworks like React. The company emphasizes a fast-paced, collaborative environment and the opportunity to contribute significantly to a rapidly growing startup.
The comments on this Hacker News post are sparse and primarily focus on the "US only" hiring restriction. Several commenters express frustration or disappointment with this limitation, questioning the reasoning behind it and suggesting it unnecessarily limits the talent pool. One commenter speculates it might be due to legal or tax complexities. Another simply points out the lost opportunity to hire globally. There's no discussion of the company itself or the specific roles.
NNCPNET is a new peer-to-peer, offline-first email network designed for resilience and privacy. Leveraging end-to-end encryption and store-and-forward messaging via sneakernet (physical media like USB drives) or opportunistic network connections, it aims to bypass traditional internet infrastructure. Users generate their own cryptographic keys and can exchange messages directly or through intermediary nodes. While still early in development, NNCPNET offers a potential alternative for communication in situations where internet access is unreliable, censored, or unavailable.
HN commenters generally express interest in NNCPNET, praising its decentralized and resilient design as a potential alternative to centralized email providers. Some raise concerns about usability and setup complexity, questioning the practicality for non-technical users. Several discuss the potential for spam and abuse, with suggestions for moderation or reputation systems. Others highlight the project's reliance on Usenet technology, debating its suitability and expressing hope for future improvements. A few users compare NNCPNET to other decentralized messaging systems, noting its unique features like offline message passing and end-to-end encryption. The project's early stage of development is acknowledged, with comments expressing anticipation for its progress and potential impact on online communication.
The "friendship recession" describes a concerning decline in close friendships experienced by many Americans. Factors like increased work demands, longer commutes, the rise of social media (offering a superficial sense of connection), and societal shifts away from community engagement contribute to this decline. This lack of close relationships impacts overall well-being, as strong friendships offer crucial emotional support, reduce stress, and promote a sense of belonging. The article advocates for prioritizing friendships by dedicating intentional time and effort, nurturing existing bonds, and actively seeking new connections through shared activities and genuine vulnerability.
HN commenters largely agree with the article's premise of a friendship recession, citing personal experiences of difficulty maintaining friendships and making new ones. Several attribute this to a combination of factors including increased social atomization, the decline of shared physical spaces like churches or community centers, and the rise of online interactions as a substitute for in-person connection. Some suggest the pandemic exacerbated these trends, while others point to longer-term societal shifts. A few commenters propose solutions, including prioritizing friendships, actively seeking out opportunities for social interaction, and fostering deeper connections rather than superficial acquaintances. Some skepticism exists, with a few questioning the methodology of friendship studies and suggesting the perceived decline might be overstated or misattributed. One commenter highlights the distinction between friendships and acquaintances, arguing that while the former might be declining, the latter are easily formed online.
Morpheus Research accuses Backblaze of precarious financial standing masked by manipulative accounting practices. They allege Backblaze inflates its cost of revenue by inappropriately capitalizing expenses related to hard drives, thereby creating a misleadingly positive gross margin. This supposed misrepresentation extends to Backblaze B2's profitability, which Morpheus Research claims is non-existent. Further accusations include insider selling amidst these financial troubles and a questionable lawsuit settlement, painting a picture of a company struggling to stay afloat and misleading investors.
Hacker News users discuss Backblaze's financial situation, with several expressing skepticism about the company's long-term viability. Some commenters highlight the mounting losses, questioning Backblaze's ability to compete with larger cloud storage providers. Others focus on the allegations of "sham accounting" and insider selling, raising concerns about the company's transparency and management. A few users defend Backblaze, pointing to their unique B2 offering and competitive pricing, suggesting the company might still have a niche to exploit. However, the overall sentiment appears to be one of caution and concern about Backblaze's future. Several users also discuss the challenges of running a profitable storage business, citing thin margins and fierce competition. Some debate the merits of the short-seller report and the potential for bias.
ICE deported three U.S. citizen children to El Salvador without contacting their family or legal guardians. The siblings, ages 9, 10, and 12, were apprehended at the border, held incommunicado for days, and subsequently expelled under Title 42, a public health order used to rapidly deport individuals without due process. The ACLU, which intervened after learning of the deportation, facilitated their return to the United States and is now advocating for accountability and policy changes to prevent similar incidents. The children's mother, a U.S. citizen residing in Texas, was unaware of their detention and deportation until after they had been expelled.
Hacker News users discuss the ACLU's reporting on the deportation of three US citizen children. Some express outrage and disbelief, questioning how such a thing could happen and pointing to potential systemic failures within ICE. Others raise concerns about the veracity of the ACLU's claims, requesting more evidence or suggesting alternative explanations, like the possibility of the children holding dual citizenship. A few commenters delve into the legal and logistical complexities of verifying citizenship, particularly in situations involving minors or undocumented parents. The discussion also touches upon the broader implications for due process and the treatment of immigrants, with some highlighting the potential for abuse and the need for greater accountability.
The blog post explores the author's experience with an enlarged prostate and his journey to find relief from bothersome urinary symptoms. He details the ineffectiveness of medications like Flomax and Finasteride before undergoing a UroLift procedure. While initially successful, the UroLift's benefits diminished after a year, prompting him to consider a Transurethral Resection of the Prostate (TURP). Ultimately, he opted for a GreenLight laser TURP and reports significant improvement in his symptoms, effectively ending his "prostate trouble." He emphasizes the importance of researching different treatment options and finding a skilled urologist.
HN users discussed the complexities of prostate cancer screening and treatment. Several highlighted the overdiagnosis and overtreatment problem, citing the potential harms of biopsies and treatments like radiation and surgery for slow-growing cancers that might never cause symptoms. The PSA test's inaccuracy and tendency to lead to unnecessary interventions were also criticized. Some commenters shared personal experiences with prostate cancer, emphasizing the importance of informed decision-making and second opinions. The piece's focus on focal therapy was met with interest, but users cautioned that it's not a universal solution and still requires thorough research and consideration. A few users pointed out the emotional toll of prostate cancer diagnosis and the difficulty of navigating treatment options.
An Australian man who illegally imported radioactive materials, including Americium-241 and uranium ore, avoided conviction. He ordered the substances online, claiming curiosity and a desire to build a nuclear reactor. While the court acknowledged the potential danger, the judge cited the man's cooperation, genuine remorse, and the low risk of actual harm as reasons for a conditional release order. This means he won't face jail time as long as he complies with the order's terms.
Hacker News commenters generally express disbelief at the leniency of the Australian court's decision. Several highlight the potential danger posed by mishandling radioactive materials, referencing incidents like the Goiania accident. Some question the man's claim of ignorance, finding it implausible given his deliberate actions in ordering and attempting to shield the materials. Others discuss the complexities of regulating such materials, suggesting the current system may be inadequate. A few commenters offer alternative explanations for his actions, such as potential use in legitimate hobbies like building a fusor or cloud chamber. The overall sentiment leans toward concern over public safety and the apparent lack of serious consequences for potentially dangerous behavior.
This blog post showcases a simple interactive cloth simulation implemented using the Verlet integration method. The author demonstrates a 2D grid of points connected by springs, mimicking the behavior of fabric. Users can interact with the cloth by clicking and dragging points, observing how the simulated fabric drapes and deforms realistically. The implementation is lightweight and efficient, running directly in the browser. The post focuses primarily on the visual demonstration of the simulation rather than a deep dive into the technical details of Verlet integration.
Hacker News users discussed the computational cost of the Verlet integration method showcased in the linked cloth simulation. Several commenters pointed out that while visually appealing, the naive implementation presented isn't particularly efficient and could be significantly improved with techniques like spatial hashing or a quadtree to avoid the O(n^2) cost of distance checks between all point pairs. Others discussed alternatives to Verlet integration like Position Based Dynamics (PBD), noting its robustness and better performance for handling constraints, especially in real-time applications. The conversation also touched upon the simulation's lack of bending resistance, the importance of damping for realism, and the general challenges of cloth simulation. A few commenters shared resources and links to more advanced cloth simulation techniques and libraries.
Mobygratis offers a vast library of copyright-free music by Moby, specifically designed for non-profit or independent creators. Filmmakers, video game developers, and other creatives can browse and download tracks across a range of moods and genres, completely free of charge. Users simply need to create a free account and agree to the license terms, which prohibit commercial use and require proper attribution. The platform aims to empower independent artistic endeavors by providing high-quality music without the financial burden of licensing.
HN commenters generally praised Moby's generosity and the utility of the site for independent creators. Some discussed copyright nuances, particularly regarding commercial use and the distinction between "non-commercial" and "non-profit." Several users expressed concern about the requirement to contact Moby's team for commercial licenses, viewing it as a potential bottleneck. Others appreciated the high quality of the music offered and shared their past experiences using Moby's music in their projects. A few pointed out the site's similarity to existing royalty-free music libraries, questioning its unique value proposition. Finally, some expressed skepticism about the sustainability of the model and Moby's motivations.
Berkeley Humanoid Lite is an open-source, 3D-printable miniature humanoid robot designed for research and education. It features a modular design, allowing for customization and experimentation with different components and actuators. The project provides detailed documentation, including CAD files, assembly instructions, and software, enabling users to build and program their own miniature humanoid robot. This low-cost platform aims to democratize access to humanoid robotics research and fosters a community-driven approach to development.
HN commenters generally expressed excitement about the open-sourcing of the Berkeley Humanoid Lite robot, praising the project's potential to democratize robotics research and development. Several pointed out the significantly lower cost compared to commercially available alternatives, making it more accessible to smaller labs and individuals. Some discussed the potential applications, including disaster relief, home assistance, and research into areas like gait and manipulation. A few questioned the practicality of the current iteration due to limitations in battery life and processing power, but acknowledged the value of the project as a starting point for further development and community contributions. Concerns were also raised regarding the safety implications of open-sourcing robot designs, with one commenter suggesting the need for careful consideration of potential misuse.
Sam Jordison reflects on the unexpected legacy of his "Crap Towns" books, which humorously cataloged perceived downsides of British towns. While initially intending lighthearted ribbing, he now grapples with the books' contribution to a more divisive and negative public discourse. He acknowledges the books' mean-spiritedness and the potential hurt they caused, particularly in a time of heightened political polarization and economic hardship. Jordison expresses discomfort with the books' role in fueling online negativity and normalizing mockery of places and communities, a phenomenon amplified by social media. He concludes with a desire to move towards kinder and more constructive conversations about place and identity.
Hacker News users discussing the "Crap Towns" book generally agree that humor based on mocking places and their residents hasn't aged well. Several commenters pointed out the inherent mean-spiritedness of the concept, noting it punches down at communities often facing economic hardship and social challenges. Some argue this type of humor contributes to negative stereotypes and reinforces existing prejudices. Others recalled finding the book funny in their youth but now see it as insensitive. A few defend the book as harmless fun and suggest critics are overly sensitive. The overall sentiment, however, leans towards acknowledging the problematic nature of such humor and its potential for harm.
While the popular belief that smartphones constantly listen to conversations to target ads is untrue, the reality is more nuanced and arguably more disturbing. The article explains that these devices collect vast amounts of data about users through various means like location tracking, browsing history, app usage, and social media activity. This data, combined with sophisticated algorithms and data brokers, creates incredibly detailed profiles that allow advertisers to predict user behavior and target them with unsettling accuracy. This constant data collection, aggregation, and analysis creates a pervasive surveillance system that raises serious privacy concerns, even without directly listening to conversations. The article concludes that addressing this complex issue requires a multi-faceted approach, including stricter regulations on data collection and increased user awareness about how their data is being used.
Hacker News users generally agree that smartphones aren't directly listening to conversations, but the implication of the title—that data collection is still deeply problematic—resonates. Several comments highlight the vast amount of data companies already possess, arguing targeted advertising works effectively without needing direct audio access. Some point out the chilling effect of believing phones are listening, altering behavior and limiting free speech. Others discuss how background data collection, location tracking, and browsing history are sufficient to infer interests and serve relevant ads, making direct listening unnecessary. A few users mention the potential for ultrasonic cross-device tracking as a more insidious form of eavesdropping. The core concern isn't microphones, but the extensive, opaque, and often exploitative data ecosystem already in place.
Fifteen new giant radio galaxies (GRGs), some of the largest known single objects in the universe, have been discovered using data from Australia's ASKAP radio telescope. These galaxies, which emit radio waves from massive lobes extending millions of light-years across, were previously missed in surveys due to their faint, diffuse emissions. This discovery, leveraging ASKAP's unique wide field of view and sensitivity, significantly expands the known population of GRGs and provides valuable opportunities to study the lifecycle of these enormous cosmic structures and the processes powering their radio jets. The findings highlight ASKAP's capability to uncover previously hidden populations of radio galaxies and deepen our understanding of galaxy evolution.
The Hacker News comments express curiosity about the formation process of giant radio galaxies (GRGs) and the role of the intergalactic medium. Some question the definition of "giant" in this context and how these galaxies compare in size to previously known GRGs. Several commenters highlight the significance of the Australian Square Kilometre Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) telescope and its ability to detect these faint objects, anticipating further discoveries as the survey progresses. There's also discussion about the visualization of these radio lobes, with some suggesting alternative representations beyond the typical false-color images. Finally, a few users speculate about potential connections between these galaxies and other astronomical phenomena like quasars or active galactic nuclei.
Summary of Comments ( 41 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43809841
Hacker News users generally expressed appreciation for the Death Star lamp project, praising the creator's ingenuity and clean execution. Several commenters focused on the clever use of IKEA parts, particularly the "Lack" table, with some suggesting alternative IKEA products for future iterations. A few users offered technical feedback, including suggestions for different microcontrollers or improvements to the dimming functionality. There was some lighthearted discussion around intellectual property concerns regarding the Death Star design, but overall the comments were positive and encouraging.
The Hacker News post titled "Show HN: Remote-Controlled IKEA Deathstar Lamp" sparked a small but interesting discussion. Several commenters expressed admiration for the project, highlighting its coolness factor and the clever integration of the IKEA PS 2014 lamp with remote control functionality.
One commenter specifically praised the use of an ESP8266 microcontroller, noting its affordability and suitability for such projects. They also mentioned the prevalence of similar projects using IKEA lamps due to their hackability and attractive designs. This comment highlights the project's accessibility and positions it within a broader trend of DIY smart home modifications.
Another commenter inquired about the method used for remote control, showing interest in the technical implementation details. The creator of the project responded, explaining that they utilized an ESP8266 running ESPHome, controlled via Home Assistant. This exchange provides insight into the specific technologies employed and demonstrates the open communication between the project creator and the community.
A further comment appreciated the overall aesthetic of the Death Star lamp, suggesting that the original IKEA design already resembled the iconic Star Wars weapon. This emphasizes the project's visual appeal and the subtle modification that enhanced the existing resemblance.
Finally, a commenter expressed their own desire to undertake a similar project using a different IKEA lamp model, demonstrating the inspirational nature of the original post and its potential to spark further creative endeavors within the community.
While the discussion is not extensive, it offers a glimpse into the positive reception of the project, with commenters focusing on its coolness, technical aspects, and potential for inspiring similar creations.