The blog post "Ask for no, don't ask for yes (2022)" argues that when seeking agreement or buy-in, framing requests negatively—asking for objections rather than approval—can be more effective. This "opt-out" approach lowers the barrier to engagement, making it easier for people to voice concerns they might otherwise keep to themselves. By explicitly inviting dissent, you gather valuable feedback, uncover hidden obstacles, and ultimately increase the likelihood of genuine agreement and successful implementation down the line. This proactive approach to identifying and addressing potential problems can lead to more robust solutions and stronger commitment from all involved parties.
Paul Graham argues that the primary way people get rich now is by creating wealth, specifically through starting or joining early-stage startups. This contrasts with older models of wealth acquisition like inheritance or rent-seeking. Building a successful company, particularly in technology, allows founders and early employees to own equity that appreciates significantly as the company grows. This wealth creation is driven by building things people want, leveraging technology for scale, and operating within a relatively open market where new companies can compete with established ones. This model is distinct from merely getting a high-paying job, which provides a good income but rarely leads to substantial wealth creation in the same way equity ownership can.
Hacker News users discussed Paul Graham's essay on contemporary wealth creation, largely agreeing with his premise that starting a startup is the most likely path to significant riches. Some commenters pointed out nuances, like the importance of equity versus salary, and the role of luck and timing. Several highlighted the increasing difficulty of bootstrapping due to the prevalence of venture capital, while others debated the societal implications of wealth concentration through startups. A few challenged Graham's focus on tech, suggesting alternative routes like real estate or skilled trades, albeit with potentially lower ceilings. The thread also explored the tension between pursuing wealth and other life goals, with some arguing that focusing solely on riches can be counterproductive.
A new study reveals that despite public claims of financial distress, Florida's property insurance companies funneled profits to investors and parent companies. This practice continued even as these insurers sought rate increases, limited coverage, and blamed losses on excessive litigation. The study argues that this diversion of funds contributed significantly to Florida's insurance crisis, contradicting narratives that solely blamed legal costs.
HN commenters generally agree that the Florida insurance market is deeply flawed, with several pointing to the confluence of climate change-driven extreme weather, rising reinsurance costs, and questionable business practices like diverting profits to investors rather than reinvesting in the system as key factors. Some suggest that deregulation has exacerbated the issue, while others see government intervention and assignment of benefit (AOB) abuse as contributing factors. A few commenters call for stricter building codes and better land use planning as long-term solutions, emphasizing the need to acknowledge and mitigate the growing risks associated with coastal development in a changing climate. Several expressed cynicism towards both the insurance companies and the political forces influencing regulations.
Amazon, having completed its acquisition of MGM Studios, now has full creative control over the James Bond franchise. This includes future 007 films, along with the extensive Bond library. Amazon intends to honor the legacy of the franchise while expanding the reach of the Bond universe through new storytelling across various media, potentially including video games and other immersive experiences. They emphasize a commitment to preserving the theatrical experience for future Bond films.
Hacker News commenters express skepticism about Amazon's ability to manage the James Bond franchise effectively. Several predict an influx of poorly-received spin-offs and sequels, diluting the brand with subpar content for profit maximization. Concerns were raised regarding Amazon's track record with original content, with some arguing their successes are outweighed by numerous mediocre productions. Others highlighted the delicate balance required to modernize Bond while retaining the core elements that define the character, fearing Amazon will prioritize commercial viability over artistic integrity. A few commenters expressed cautious optimism, hoping Amazon might bring fresh perspectives to the franchise, but overall sentiment leans towards apprehension about the future of James Bond under Amazon's control.
Struggling electric truck manufacturer Nikola has filed for bankruptcy after years of financial difficulties and broken promises. The company, once touted as a Tesla rival, faced numerous setbacks including production delays, fraud allegations against its founder, and dwindling investor confidence. This bankruptcy filing marks the end of the road for the troubled startup, which was unable to overcome its challenges and deliver on its ambitious vision for zero-emission trucking.
Hacker News commenters on Nikola's bankruptcy expressed little surprise, with many citing the company's history of dubious claims and questionable leadership as the root cause. Several pointed to Trevor Milton's fraud conviction as a pivotal moment, highlighting the erosion of trust and investor confidence. Some discussed the challenges of the electric vehicle market, particularly for startups attempting to compete with established players. A few commenters questioned the viability of hydrogen fuel cells in the trucking industry, suggesting that battery-electric technology is the more practical path. Overall, the sentiment reflects skepticism towards Nikola's long-term prospects, even before the bankruptcy filing.
Broadcom and TSMC are reportedly exploring separate deals with Intel that could break up the struggling chip giant. Broadcom is considering acquiring Intel's networking business, while TSMC is in talks to potentially build a dedicated fabrication plant near Intel's Arizona site. These deals, if they materialize, would represent a significant shift for Intel, signaling a potential move away from its traditional integrated device manufacturing model and allowing it to focus on its core chip-designing business.
HN commenters are skeptical of the WSJ article's premise that Intel would split its manufacturing operations. Several point out that Intel's foundry business is integral to its IDM (Integrated Device Manufacturing) model and selling it off, especially to a competitor like TSMC, would be strategically unsound. Others argue that Intel's manufacturing capabilities, while currently lagging behind TSMC, are still a valuable asset, especially given the current geopolitical climate and the desire for more geographically diverse chip production. Some commenters suggest the rumors might be intentionally leaked by Intel to gauge public and investor reactions, or even to put pressure on governments for more subsidies. The overall sentiment is that a complete split is unlikely, but smaller deals, like selling specific fabs or collaborating on specific technologies, are more plausible.
Acer CEO Jason Chen stated that US tariffs on Chinese imports have led to a 10% increase in laptop prices in the United States. Chen explained that while Acer has shifted some production to other countries like Mexico and Taiwan to mitigate the impact, these locations are more expensive than China, resulting in the price hike. He believes that the tariffs ultimately harm American consumers and hopes the situation can be resolved, potentially through regional trade agreements.
HN commenters largely discuss the dubious nature of blaming tariffs for the price increase, pointing out that Acer's profits have increased and questioning whether the tariffs are truly the primary driver. Some suggest the price hike is simply opportunistic, leveraging current economic anxieties and inflation. Others note that component shortages and general inflation likely play a larger role. A few commenters mention that Acer laptops aren't particularly desirable, potentially necessitating price adjustments due to market forces. Several also point out the self-serving nature of the CEO's statement, as it deflects blame from the company itself.
The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is establishing a new trading floor in Arlington, Texas, called NYSE Texas. Scheduled to open in 2027, this facility will serve as a disaster recovery and backup site for the NYSE's existing operations. It will also house a physical trading floor mirroring the iconic NYSE in New York City, offering a venue for in-person trading and important corporate events like IPO ceremonies. This expansion aims to increase the exchange's resiliency and geographical diversity.
Hacker News commenters were generally cynical about the announcement of NYSE Texas. Many saw it as a thinly veiled attempt to circumvent regulations, potentially relating to taxes or data sovereignty, with some speculating about connections to Texas's lax regulatory environment. Several pointed out the irony of a New York institution establishing a Texas branch for supposed advantages, while others questioned the practical implications and whether any significant trading activity would actually relocate. Some suggested the move was more about optics and public relations than genuine operational needs, especially given the existing electronic nature of trading. A few commenters expressed curiosity about the specifics of the "cutting edge financial technology" mentioned in the press release, but overall the sentiment was skeptical.
TSMC is reportedly in talks with Intel to potentially manufacture chips for Intel's GPU division using TSMC's advanced 3nm process. This presents a dilemma for TSMC, as accepting Intel's business would mean allocating valuable 3nm capacity away from existing customers like Apple and Nvidia, potentially impacting their product roadmaps. Further complicating matters is the geopolitical pressure TSMC faces to reduce its reliance on China, with the US CHIPS Act incentivizing domestic production. While taking on Intel's business could strengthen TSMC's US presence and potentially secure government subsidies, it risks alienating key clients and diverting resources from crucial internal development. TSMC must carefully weigh the benefits of this collaboration against the potential disruption to its existing business and long-term strategic goals.
Hacker News commenters discuss the potential TSMC-Intel collaboration with skepticism. Several doubt Intel's ability to successfully utilize TSMC's advanced nodes, citing Intel's past manufacturing struggles and the potential complexity of integrating different process technologies. Others question the strategic logic for both companies, suggesting that such a partnership could create conflicts of interest and potentially compromise TSMC's competitive advantage. Some commenters also point out the geopolitical implications, noting the US government's desire to strengthen domestic chip production and reduce reliance on Taiwan. A few express concerns about the potential impact on TSMC's capacity and the availability of advanced nodes for other clients. Overall, the sentiment leans towards cautious pessimism about the rumored collaboration.
Wired reports that several employees at the United States Digital Service (USDS), a technology modernization agency within the federal government, have been fired or have resigned after the agency mandated they use the "Doge" text-to-speech voice for official communications. This controversial decision, spearheaded by the USDS administrator, Mina Hsiang, was met with resistance from staff who felt it undermined the agency's credibility and professionalism. The departures include key personnel and raise concerns about the future of the USDS and its ability to effectively carry out its mission.
HN commenters discuss the firing of Doge (the Shiba Inu) TTS's creator from the National Weather Service, expressing skepticism that it's actually related to the meme. Some suggest the real reason could be budget cuts, internal politics, or performance issues, while others point out the lack of official explanation fuels speculation. Several commenters find the situation amusing, referencing the absurdity of the headline and the potential for a meme-related firing. A few express concern over the potential misuse of authority and chilling effect on creativity if the firing was indeed related to the Doge TTS. The general sentiment leans towards distrust of the presented narrative, with a desire for more information before drawing conclusions.
Talks of a potential $60 billion merger between Nissan and Honda, aimed at creating an automotive powerhouse to rival Toyota, ultimately collapsed due to a clash of corporate cultures and control issues. Nissan, still grappling with internal turmoil following the Carlos Ghosn scandal, was wary of Honda's proposal which would have effectively put Honda in the dominant position. Key disagreements arose concerning leadership structure, operational control, and the future of Nissan's existing alliance with Renault. These irreconcilable differences, coupled with differing views on future technology development strategies, led to the abandonment of the merger discussions.
HN commenters generally agree that cultural clashes were the primary downfall of the Nissan/Honda merger talks. Several pointed to Nissan's internal struggles and legacy issues as a major impediment, suggesting Honda was wise to walk away. Some speculated that Nissan's desire for a more dominant role in the merged entity, despite its weaker position, further complicated negotiations. A few commenters questioned the overall strategic rationale of the merger, particularly given the differing strengths and market focuses of the two companies. Finally, there's some skepticism about the "leak" of the breakdown, with suggestions it might be a strategic move by one or both parties.
Faced with the unsustainable maintenance burden of his popular open-source Java linear algebra library, ND4J, the author founded Timefold.ai. The library's widespread use in commercial settings, coupled with the limited resources available for its upkeep through traditional open-source avenues like donations and sponsorships, led to this decision. Timefold offers commercial support and enterprise features built upon ND4J, generating revenue that directly funds the continued development and maintenance of the open-source project. This model allows the library to thrive and remain freely available, while simultaneously providing a sustainable business model based on its value.
Hacker News users generally praised the Timefold founder's ingenuity and resourcefulness in creating a business around his open-source project. Several commenters discussed the challenges of monetizing open-source software, with some suggesting alternative models like donations or dual licensing. A few expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of relying on commercializing closed-source extensions, particularly given the rapid advancements in open-source LLMs. Some users also debated the ethics of restricting certain features to paying customers, while others emphasized the importance of sustainable funding for open-source projects. The founder's transparency and clear explanation of his motivations were widely appreciated.
Intel's $2 billion acquisition of Habana Labs, an Israeli AI chip startup, is considered a failure. Instead of leveraging Habana's innovative Gaudi processors, which outperformed Intel's own offerings for AI training, Intel prioritized its existing, less competitive technology. This ultimately led to Habana's stagnation, an exodus of key personnel, and Intel falling behind Nvidia in the burgeoning AI chip market. The decision is attributed to internal politics, resistance to change, and a failure to recognize the transformative potential of Habana's technology.
HN commenters generally agree that Habana's acquisition by Intel was mishandled, leading to its demise and Intel losing ground in the AI race. Several point to Intel's bureaucratic structure and inability to integrate acquired companies effectively as the primary culprit. Some argue that Intel's focus on CPUs hindered its ability to recognize the importance of GPUs and specialized AI hardware, leading them to sideline Habana's promising technology. Others suggest that the acquisition price itself might have been inflated, setting unreasonable expectations for Habana's success. A few commenters offer alternative perspectives, questioning whether Habana's technology was truly revolutionary or if its failure was inevitable regardless of Intel's involvement. However, the dominant narrative is one of a promising startup stifled by a corporate giant, highlighting the challenges of integrating innovative acquisitions into established structures.
Tony Fadell, in an excerpt from his book "Build," reveals storytelling lessons learned from Steve Jobs while working on the iPod and iPhone. Jobs emphasized creating a simple, almost reductive narrative focused on a singular core message, avoiding feature lists. He believed in crafting an emotional connection with the audience by focusing on the "why" – how the product improves lives – rather than just the "what" – its technical specifications. Jobs also meticulously rehearsed presentations and product demos, controlling every detail to ensure a compelling and persuasive narrative. Finally, he insisted on empowering others to tell the story too, ensuring consistent messaging across the organization.
HN commenters largely discussed the value of storytelling, particularly in a business context. Some were skeptical of the excerpt's framing of Jobs as a "master storyteller," arguing that his success stemmed more from product vision and marketing savvy. Others pointed out the importance of substance over storytelling, suggesting that a compelling narrative can't mask a mediocre product. A few commenters shared personal anecdotes about effective storytelling in their own careers, while others debated the ethics of manipulating emotions through narrative. One highly upvoted comment highlighted the difference between manipulative and inspirational storytelling, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and genuine belief in the message.
Postmake.io/revenue offers a simple calculator to help businesses quickly estimate their annual recurring revenue (ARR). Users input their number of customers, average revenue per customer (ARPU), and customer churn rate to calculate current ARR, ARR growth potential, and potential revenue loss due to churn. The tool aims to provide a straightforward way to understand these key metrics and their impact on overall revenue, facilitating better financial planning.
Hacker News users generally reacted positively to Postmake's revenue calculator. Several commenters praised its simplicity and ease of use, finding it a helpful tool for quick calculations. Some suggested potential improvements, like adding more sophisticated features for calculating recurring revenue or including churn rate. One commenter pointed out the importance of considering customer lifetime value (CLTV) alongside revenue. A few expressed skepticism about the long-term viability of relying on a third-party tool for such calculations, suggesting spreadsheets or custom-built solutions as alternatives. Overall, the comments reflected an appreciation for a simple, accessible tool while also highlighting the need for more robust solutions for complex revenue modeling.
According to Morris Chang, founding chairman of TSMC, Apple CEO Tim Cook expressed skepticism about Intel's foundry ambitions, reportedly stating that Intel "didn't know how to be a foundry." This comment, made during a meeting where Chang was trying to convince Cook to let Intel manufacture Apple chips, highlights the perceived difference in expertise and experience between established foundry giant TSMC and Intel's relatively nascent efforts in the contract chip manufacturing business. Chang ultimately declined Intel's offer, citing their high prices and lack of a true commitment to being a foundry partner.
Hacker News commenters generally agree with the assessment that Intel struggles with the foundry business model. Several point out the inherent conflict of interest in competing with your own customers, a challenge Intel faces. Some highlight Intel's history of prioritizing its own products over foundry customers, leading to delays and capacity issues for those clients. Others suggest that Intel's internal culture and organizational structure aren't conducive to the customer-centric approach required for a successful foundry. A few express skepticism about the veracity of the quote attributed to Tim Cook, while others suggest it's simply a restatement of widely understood industry realities. Some also discuss the broader geopolitical implications of TSMC's dominance and the US government's efforts to bolster domestic chip manufacturing.
Schrödinger, a computational drug discovery company partnering with Nvidia, is using AI and physics-based simulations to revolutionize pharmaceutical development. Their platform accelerates the traditionally slow and expensive process of identifying and optimizing drug candidates by predicting molecular properties and interactions. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang encouraged Schrödinger to expand their ambition beyond drug discovery, envisioning applications in materials science and other fields leveraging their computational prowess and predictive modeling capabilities. This partnership combines Schrödinger's scientific expertise with Nvidia's advanced computing power, ultimately aiming to create a new paradigm of accelerated scientific discovery.
Hacker News users discuss Nvidia's partnership with Schrödinger and their ambitious goals in drug discovery. Several commenters express skepticism about the feasibility of using AI to revolutionize drug development, citing the complexity of biological systems and the limitations of current computational methods. Some highlight the potential for AI to accelerate specific aspects of the process, such as molecule design and screening, but doubt it can replace the need for extensive experimental validation. Others question the hype surrounding AI in drug discovery, suggesting it's driven more by marketing than scientific breakthroughs. There's also discussion of Schrödinger's existing software and its perceived strengths and weaknesses within the field. Finally, some commenters note the potential conflict of interest between scientific rigor and the financial incentives driving the partnership.
The blog post argues that Nvidia's current high valuation is unjustified due to increasing competition and the potential disruption posed by open-source models like DeepSeek. While acknowledging Nvidia's strong position and impressive growth, the author contends that competitors are rapidly developing comparable hardware, and that the open-source movement, exemplified by DeepSeek, is making advanced AI models more accessible, reducing reliance on proprietary solutions. This combination of factors is predicted to erode Nvidia's dominance and consequently its stock price, making the current valuation unsustainable in the long term.
Hacker News users discuss the potential impact of competition and open-source models like DeepSeek on Nvidia's dominance. Some argue that while open source is gaining traction, Nvidia's hardware/software ecosystem and established developer network provide a significant moat. Others point to the rapid pace of AI development, suggesting that Nvidia's current advantage might not be sustainable in the long term, particularly if open-source models achieve comparable performance. The high cost of Nvidia's hardware is also a recurring theme, with commenters speculating that cheaper alternatives could disrupt the market. Finally, several users express skepticism about DeepSeek's ability to pose a serious threat to Nvidia in the near future.
The author announced the acquisition of their bootstrapped SaaS startup, Refind, by Readwise. After five years of profitable growth and serving thousands of paying users, they decided to join forces with Readwise to accelerate development and reach a wider audience. They expressed gratitude to the Hacker News community for their support and feedback throughout Refind's journey, highlighting how the platform played a crucial role in their initial user acquisition and growth. The author is excited about the future and the opportunity to continue building valuable tools for learners with the Readwise team.
The Hacker News comments on the "Thank HN" acquisition post are overwhelmingly positive and congratulatory. Several commenters inquire about the startup's niche and journey, expressing genuine curiosity and admiration for the bootstrapped success. Some offer advice for navigating the acquisition process, while others share their own experiences with acquisitions, both positive and negative. A few highlight the importance of celebrating such wins within the startup community, offering encouragement to other founders. The most compelling comments offer practical advice stemming from personal experience, like negotiating earn-outs and retaining key employees. There's a general sense of shared excitement and goodwill throughout the thread.
The UK has a peculiar concentration of small, highly profitable, often family-owned businesses—"micro behemoths"—that dominate niche global markets. These companies, typically with 10-100 employees and revenues exceeding £10 million, thrive due to specialized expertise, long-term focus, and aversion to rapid growth or outside investment. They prioritize profitability over scale, often operating under the radar and demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of economic downturns. This "hidden economy" forms a significant, yet often overlooked, contributor to British economic strength, showcasing a unique model of business success.
HN commenters generally praised the article for its clear explanation of the complexities of the UK's semiconductor industry, particularly surrounding Arm. Several highlighted the geopolitical implications of Arm's dependence on global markets and the precarious position this puts the UK in. Some questioned the framing of Arm as a "British" company, given its global ownership and reach. Others debated the wisdom of Nvidia's attempted acquisition and the subsequent IPO, with opinions split on the long-term consequences for Arm's future. A few pointed out the article's omission of details regarding specific chip designs and technical advancements, suggesting this would have enriched the narrative. Some commenters also offered further context, such as the role of Hermann Hauser and Acorn Computers in Arm's origins, or discussed the specific challenges faced by smaller British semiconductor companies.
SoftBank, Oracle, and MGX are partnering to build data centers specifically designed for generative AI, codenamed "Project Stargate." These centers will host tens of thousands of Nvidia GPUs, catering to the substantial computing power demanded by companies like OpenAI. The project aims to address the growing need for AI infrastructure and position the involved companies as key players in the generative AI boom.
HN commenters are skeptical of the "Stargate Project" and its purported aims. Several suggest the involved parties (Trump, OpenAI, Oracle, SoftBank) are primarily motivated by financial gain, rather than advancing AI safety or national security. Some point to Trump's history of hyperbole and broken promises, while others question the technical feasibility and strategic value of centralizing AI compute. The partnership with the little-known mining company, MGX, is viewed with particular suspicion, with commenters speculating about potential tax breaks or resource exploitation being the real drivers. Overall, the prevailing sentiment is one of distrust and cynicism, with many believing the project is more likely a marketing ploy than a genuine technological breakthrough.
The author argues that Automattic CEO Matt Mullenweg is actively harming the WordPress ecosystem. They criticize the company's focus on closed-source commercial offerings like Jetpack, claiming they duplicate the functionality of existing open-source plugins and force users into expensive subscriptions. This strategy, combined with what the author sees as neglect of core WordPress development and a disregard for community feedback, is portrayed as a deliberate attempt to stifle independent plugin developers and consolidate control within Automattic, ultimately weakening the platform as a whole.
Hacker News commenters largely agree with the article's premise, expressing frustration with Automattic's direction for WordPress. Several criticize the Gutenberg editor for its complexity and perceived bloat, arguing it prioritizes Automattic's business interests over user experience. Some lament the declining quality and rising costs of WordPress.com plans, viewing them as a push towards a closed ecosystem. Others express concern about Automattic's apparent disregard for the open-source community and the potential fracturing of the WordPress ecosystem. A few offer counterpoints, suggesting the criticisms are overblown or that the changes benefit specific user groups. However, the prevailing sentiment reflects a disillusionment with WordPress's current trajectory under Automattic's leadership.
Ron Garrett reflects on six failed startup attempts, rejecting the label of "failure" and instead focusing on the valuable lessons learned. He emphasizes the importance of choosing the right co-founder, validating ideas early and often, building a minimum viable product (MVP) quickly, and iterating based on user feedback. Marketing and distribution proved crucial, and while passion is essential, it must be coupled with a realistic market and sustainable business model. Ultimately, he learned that "failing fast" and adapting are key to entrepreneurial growth, viewing each setback as a stepping stone toward future success.
HN commenters largely praised the author's vulnerability and honesty in sharing their startup failures. Several highlighted the importance of recognizing sunk cost fallacy and knowing when to pivot or quit. Some questioned the framing of the experiences as "failures," arguing that valuable lessons and growth emerged from them. A few commenters shared their own similar experiences, emphasizing the emotional toll of startup struggles. Others offered practical advice, such as validating ideas early and prioritizing distribution. The prevailing sentiment was one of empathy and encouragement, acknowledging the difficulty of entrepreneurship and the courage it takes to try repeatedly.
Jeff Atwood, co-founder of Stack Overflow and Discourse, discusses his philanthropic plans in a CNBC interview. Driven by a desire to address wealth inequality and contribute meaningfully, Atwood intends to give away millions of dollars over the next five years, primarily focusing on supporting effective altruism organizations like GiveWell and 80,000 Hours. He believes strongly in evidence-based philanthropy and emphasizes the importance of maximizing the impact of donations. Atwood acknowledges the complexity of giving effectively and plans to learn and adapt his approach as he explores different giving strategies. He contrasts his approach with traditional philanthropy, highlighting his desire for measurable results and a focus on organizations tackling global issues like poverty and existential risks.
Hacker News users discuss Jeff Atwood's philanthropy plans with a mix of skepticism and cautious optimism. Some question the effectiveness of his chosen approach, suggesting direct cash transfers or focusing on systemic issues would be more impactful. Others express concern about potential unintended consequences or the difficulty of measuring impact. A few commend his willingness to give back and experiment with different approaches, while others simply note Atwood's historical involvement in coding communities and the evolution of Stack Overflow. Several users also mention effective altruism and debate its merits, reflecting a general interest in maximizing the impact of charitable giving. Overall, the discussion highlights the complexities and nuances of philanthropy, especially in the tech world.
The UK possesses significant untapped hardware engineering talent, hindered by a risk-averse investment landscape that prioritizes software over hardware startups. This preference stems from the perceived higher costs and longer development timelines associated with hardware, leading to a scarcity of funding and support. Consequently, promising hardware engineers often migrate to software roles or leave the country altogether, depriving the UK of potential innovation and economic growth in crucial sectors like semiconductors, robotics, and clean energy. The author argues for increased investment and a shift in perspective to recognize the long-term value and strategic importance of fostering a thriving hardware ecosystem.
Hacker News users discuss the challenges and potential of the UK hardware industry. Several commenters point out the difficulty of competing with US salaries and stock options, making it hard to retain talent in the UK. Others argue that the UK's strength lies in specific niche areas like silicon design, photonics, and high-end audio, rather than mass-market consumer electronics. Some suggest that the UK's smaller market size discourages large-scale hardware ventures, while others highlight the role of universities and research institutions in fostering talent. There's also discussion about the impact of Brexit, with some claiming it has worsened the talent drain, while others downplay its effect. Finally, some commenters suggest potential solutions, like government incentives, increased investment, and fostering a stronger entrepreneurial culture to retain and attract hardware talent within the UK.
Qualcomm has prevailed in a significant licensing dispute with Arm. A confidential arbitration ruling affirmed Qualcomm's right to continue licensing Arm's instruction set architecture for its Nuvia-designed chips under existing agreements. This victory allows Qualcomm to proceed with its plans to incorporate these custom-designed processors into its products, potentially disrupting the server chip market. Arm had argued that the licenses were non-transferable after Qualcomm acquired Nuvia, but the arbitrator disagreed. Financial details of the ruling remain undisclosed.
Hacker News commenters largely discuss the implications of Qualcomm's legal victory over Arm. Several express concern that this decision sets a dangerous precedent, potentially allowing companies to sub-license core technology they don't fully own, stifling innovation and competition. Some speculate this could push other chip designers to RISC-V, an open-source alternative to Arm's architecture. Others question the long-term viability of Arm's business model if they cannot control their own licensing. Some commenters see this as a specific attack on Nuvia's (acquired by Qualcomm) custom core designs, with Qualcomm leveraging their market power. Finally, a few express skepticism about the reporting and suggest waiting for further details to emerge.
Summary of Comments ( 254 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43144611
Hacker News users discuss the nuances of the "ask for no" strategy. Several commenters point out that it's not about literally asking for "no," but rather framing the request in a way that makes it easy for someone to decline without feeling guilty or pressured. This approach is seen as particularly useful in sales, negotiations, and managing teams, fostering better relationships by respecting autonomy. Some argue it's a form of manipulation, while others defend it as a way to create psychological safety. The discussion also touches on cultural differences, noting that the directness of "asking for no" might not translate well in all environments. A few users share personal anecdotes of how this strategy has led to better outcomes, emphasizing the importance of sincerity and genuine respect for the other party's decision.
The Hacker News post "Ask for no, don't ask for yes (2022)" has generated several comments discussing the core idea of framing requests in a way that allows the other party to easily decline. Many commenters agree with the premise, finding it a useful strategy for various situations.
One compelling comment highlights the effectiveness of this approach in sales, pointing out that by giving prospects an easy out, it lowers their defenses and paradoxically makes them more receptive to the offer. This comment also mentions that this technique is taught in sales training, reinforcing its practical value.
Another commenter emphasizes the importance of sincerity when using this method. They argue that feigning disinterest while secretly hoping for a "yes" can be manipulative and ultimately counterproductive. Genuine respect for the other person's autonomy is crucial for the approach to work effectively.
Several commenters share anecdotes illustrating the principle in action. One describes successfully negotiating a lower price by explicitly stating their willingness to walk away. Another recounts using this technique to get valuable feedback, framing the request in a way that made it easy for the recipient to decline without feeling guilty.
The discussion also touches upon the psychological underpinnings of the "ask for no" strategy. One commenter suggests it leverages reactance theory, whereby people tend to resist perceived limitations on their freedom. By explicitly acknowledging their right to say no, you reduce this reactance and increase the likelihood of a positive response.
Some commenters also offer alternative perspectives, suggesting that the effectiveness of this technique can depend on the specific context and the relationship between the parties involved. For instance, it might be less suitable in situations where a strong, assertive approach is expected.
Overall, the comments generally support the article's main point, with many users sharing personal experiences and insights that further illuminate the benefits and nuances of "asking for no." The discussion emphasizes the importance of sincerity and respect, highlighting that this strategy is not about manipulation, but about creating a more comfortable and open environment for communication.