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Automated summaries of top Hacker News stories written by a large language model.
Omnivision-968M: Vision Language Model with 9x Tokens Reduction for Edge Devices
OmniVision-968M is a cutting-edge multimodal model designed for edge devices, offering a significant reduction in computational demands by compressing image tokens from 729 to 81, thereby enhancing efficiency and reducing latency. This model builds on LLaVA's architecture, integrating a base language model (Qwen2.5-0.5B-Instruct) and a vision encoder (SigLIP-400M) with a novel projection layer that aligns visual and textual data. A standout feature is the Direct Preference Optimization (DPO) training, which minimizes hallucinations by using minimally edited corrections to improve response accuracy without altering core model behavior. OmniVision outperforms nanoLLAVA in benchmarks, demonstrating its superior capabilities. The model's development is ongoing, with plans to expand DPO training and enhance document understanding. The innovative token compression and minimal-edit DPO are particularly clever, offering a unique approach to optimizing edge AI applications.
The OpenFlexure 3D printable microscope
The OpenFlexure 3D printable microscope is an innovative project that invites community engagement through the OpenFlexure Forum. This platform is a hub for users to discuss, seek assistance, and share insights about the microscope. It encourages collaboration by allowing members to request new features and contribute to the project's development. The forum also serves as a space for announcements and updates, fostering a sense of community among users. The unique aspect of this project is its open-source nature, enabling anyone to participate in its evolution, which is both empowering and potentially controversial due to varying opinions on open-source contributions.
New Apple security feature reboots iPhones after 3 days, researchers confirm
Apple's latest iPhone software introduces a unique security feature known as "inactivity reboot," which automatically restarts the device if it remains unlocked for 72 hours. This feature, confirmed by security researchers and demonstrated by Jiska Classen, enhances security by locking encryption keys in the secure enclave chip, making it harder for unauthorized access. While this poses challenges for law enforcement and forensic experts, who rely on accessing data from devices, it doesn't completely lock them out. The feature highlights ongoing tensions between Apple and law enforcement, reminiscent of past controversies such as the 2016 FBI case. Apple has not commented on this development.
Self-Contained Executable Programs with Deno Compile
Since Deno v1.6, the deno compile command has revolutionized how developers can transform JavaScript and TypeScript programs into standalone binaries, eliminating the need for dependencies or additional installations. This advancement offers significant benefits, such as cross-platform compatibility, bundled assets, streamlined deployment, and improved startup times. With Deno 2, further enhancements include support for npm packages, web workers, cross-compilation, smaller binary sizes, and code signing with custom icons, allowing for the compilation of complete applications like desktop games into native binaries. The process involves embedding scripts into a Deno runtime binary, making it simple and efficient compared to Node's multi-step compilation. Notably, Deno-compiled binaries demonstrate performance boosts, running nearly twice as fast as regular npm binaries. While asset bundling isn't directly supported yet, developers can convert assets into base64-encoded files for inclusion. Future updates aim to streamline asset bundling and support more frameworks. This innovation simplifies JavaScript development, offering a zero-config toolchain and native TypeScript support, making it a compelling alternative in the ecosystem.
The Cosmos Teems with Complex Organic Molecules
The cosmos is rich with complex organic molecules, suggesting that the chemical processes leading to life's building blocks might not be unique to Earth. Researchers like Booth and Hänni are exploring how these molecules form in protoplanetary disks and comets, with recent computer models indicating that complex organics can rapidly assemble in "dust traps" where planets form. This discovery links the formation of organics with planetary development. Comets, such as 67P, and asteroids provide insights into the primordial chemistry of the solar system, revealing unexpected complexity. The potential for these molecules to serve as biosignatures in astrobiology is intriguing, though distinguishing between biotic and abiotic origins remains challenging. Missions like ESA's Juice and NASA's Europa Clipper aim to explore organic chemistry on icy moons, offering a glimpse into extraterrestrial environments. The study of organic molecules not only informs the search for life but also enhances our understanding of cosmic processes. The notion that organic chemistry is a universal norm, as Schmitt-Kopplin suggests, highlights the interconnected evolution of the mineral and organic worlds.
Upcoming Hardening in PHP
In 2022, I attended BlackAlps where cfreal discussed vulnerabilities in PHP's allocator, highlighting its susceptibility to remote exploits. I found it absurd that PHP's heap was so vulnerable and decided to take action to make PHP exploitation more challenging. Two years later, I initiated a meta-issue on PHP's bug tracker and began working on hardening PHP, with significant contributions from Arnaud Le Blanc. Together, we implemented several improvements, including non-heap-related techniques. These enhancements are either already integrated or will be soon, so it's crucial to keep your PHP stack updated. Interestingly, while many focus on optimizing exploitation techniques, few invest the minimal effort needed to fix these vulnerabilities, which often requires just a few lines of code and 20 minutes.
When the U.S. Forest Service's budget shrinks, who pumps campground toilets?
The article from Marketplace highlights the challenges faced by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) due to budget constraints, focusing on the Bridger-Teton National Forest (BTNF) in Wyoming. With looming federal budget cuts, essential tasks like pumping campground toilets are at risk. The BTNF partnered with the nonprofit Friends of the Bridger-Teton to manage these tasks more cost-effectively, showcasing a novel model for addressing funding gaps. This partnership allowed the toilets to remain open, preventing public health hazards. The article underscores the surprising necessity of nonprofits in supporting federal land management, as the USFS faces potential funding reductions of half a billion dollars.
Bootstrapping Alpine Linux without root
In this blog post, I explore the challenge of creating a chroot environment in Alpine Linux without requiring root privileges, a task traditionally dependent on superuser access. The conventional method involves using the chroot command and mounting necessary filesystems, both of which need root permissions. However, by leveraging user namespaces, I demonstrate a way to run commands with root-like privileges inside a namespace while remaining unprivileged outside. This approach, though innovative, has limitations and requires initial root access to modify /etc/subuid and /etc/subgid files. Additionally, tools like unshare and apk.static are utilized to build a root filesystem. Despite the complexity and inefficiencies, this method allows for a rootless chroot setup, which is particularly useful for cross-architecture chroots and could potentially simplify processes like flashing images to devices. The solution is not without its challenges, especially regarding filesystem manipulation and UID remapping, but it represents a significant step towards reducing dependency on superuser privileges.
Twitter (most likely) regrets adding Follow
In the article "Twitter (most likely) regrets adding Follow" on contra.com, the author reflects on the evolution of the "follow" feature on Twitter. Initially, following users helps newcomers discover interesting content and personalities. However, over time, as users accumulate thousands of follows, their feeds become cluttered with posts from strangers discussing fleeting trends like crypto and crossfit. This results in a disjointed experience that no longer aligns with the user's current interests. The piece subtly critiques the platform's design, suggesting that the follow feature may have inadvertently diluted the quality and relevance of users' feeds over time.
Implementing Signal's Double Ratchet algorithm (2020)
In this exploration of Signal's Double Ratchet algorithm, I delve into its cryptographic intricacies and practical implementations. The Double Ratchet algorithm is a fascinating cryptographic protocol that ensures forward secrecy, break-in recovery, confidentiality, and deniability through the use of evolving keys, or "ratchets." This is particularly relevant in an era where privacy is paramount due to increasing governmental surveillance. The algorithm is employed by major platforms like Signal, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger for end-to-end encryption. Implementing it was challenging yet rewarding, as it required understanding complex concepts like the Extended Triple Diffie-Hellman (X3DH) key exchange. This process involves generating and exchanging multiple keys to establish a secure communication channel. Despite the complexity, the algorithm's documentation and resources like Computerphile's videos made it accessible. Writing cryptographic code is both daunting and exhilarating, offering a sense of accomplishment when successfully decrypting messages. The implementation journey is detailed, highlighting the cleverness of the algorithm's design and its critical role in modern digital privacy. (Summary based on 35% of story text.)
Show HN: Railway – A better way to build software. Period
For too long, deploying cloud infrastructure has been the most painful part of the developer toolchain. At Railway, we're revolutionizing this process by merging distributed systems engineering with intuitive interface design to enhance every layer of the stack. Our platform offers instant deployments and effortless scaling, providing a seamless and efficient developer experience. This innovative approach is set to transform how applications are deployed, making the process faster and more enjoyable. Welcome to Railway, where a better way to build software is now boarding. The unique blend of speed and user-friendly design is what sets Railway apart in the industry.
In Memoriam: Thomas E. Kurtz, 1928–2024
With profound sadness, we commemorate the life and legacy of Thomas E. Kurtz, a pioneering figure in computer science. Born in 1928, Kurtz co-invented the BASIC programming language and the Dartmouth Timesharing System alongside John Kemeny. In the 1960s, when accessible programming languages were scarce, BASIC was designed for undergraduates, democratizing computing education. The Dartmouth Timesharing System, a groundbreaking achievement, enabled students to access BASIC via Teletype terminals. Kurtz's work laid the foundation for BASIC's widespread adoption, influencing generations of computing, from mainframes to microcomputers. His storied career included roles at Dartmouth, contributions to computing standards, and the founding of True BASIC, Inc. His impact on computing and education endures, celebrated by his induction as a Fellow of the ACM in 1994.
Show HN: Windsurf – Agentic IDE
Windsurf is an innovative Agentic Integrated Development Environment (IDE) showcased on codeium.com. Designed for developers, it requires Ubuntu 20.04 or higher, or specific glibc and glibcxx versions for other Linux distributions. This tool aims to streamline coding processes, offering a unique approach to development environments. The focus on agentic capabilities suggests a shift towards more autonomous and intelligent coding assistance, which could be seen as a clever advancement in IDE technology. However, the requirement for specific system configurations might limit accessibility for some users, potentially sparking debate over inclusivity and adaptability across diverse development environments.
FreeCAD 1.0 Release Candidate 4 is out
We are excited to announce the release of the fourth v1.0 release candidate for FreeCAD, now available for download on GitHub. Although we skipped an official announcement for RC3 due to an immediate regression issue, we are now focused on resolving a single macOS-specific UI problem, our last release blocker. We plan to wait another week to ensure no new blockers arise before releasing the final version. If everything proceeds smoothly, expect the official release of FreeCAD 1.0 next week. The rapid identification and response to the regression in RC3 highlight our commitment to quality and user experience.
Mummified Sabretooth Cub Discovered in Siberia
In a remarkable discovery, a mummified sabretooth cub, identified as Homotherium latidens, was unearthed in Siberia's Badyarikha River region. This Upper Pleistocene specimen, comparable in age to a three-week-old lion cub, offers unique insights into the anatomy of these extinct felids. The mummy's well-preserved features, including its skull and fur, reveal significant anatomical differences from modern lions, such as a longer neck and larger oral fissure. The study highlights the cub's distinct morphological traits, like a pronounced mandibular flange and a swollen braincase, underscoring the evolutionary divergence within the Felidae family. This discovery is not only a testament to the preservation conditions in Siberia but also a valuable contribution to understanding prehistoric wildlife. (Summary based on 66% of story text.)
Attestations: A new generation of signatures on PyPI
In collaboration with the Python Package Index (PyPI), we have developed a new security feature: index-hosted digital attestations, as outlined in PEP 740. These attestations enhance traditional PGP signatures by offering improved usability, verifiability, cryptographic strength, and provenance, moving us closer to a fully verifiable software supply chain. Notably, if you use Trusted Publishing on PyPI, no changes are needed to benefit from this feature. Sigstore plays a crucial role by providing identity-based keyless signing, linking Trusted Publishing with package provenance. While attestations are now default for many packages, the challenge remains in enabling downstream verification, which we aim to address with future pip plugin architectures. This initiative is a significant step toward enhancing security and transparency in the Python ecosystem.
Futexes at Home
In "Futexes at Home," the author explores the intricacies of implementing a toy Java Virtual Machine, focusing on the challenges of object locking in synchronized methods or blocks. The piece delves into the historical context of multi-threading, noting Java's early adoption of intrinsic monitors for object locking, a feature that is not widely used today due to its complexity. The author cleverly navigates the limitations of existing synchronization primitives in Rust, such as std::sync::Mutex, and opts to create a custom solution using atomics and the atomic-wait crate. A unique aspect is the author's approach to thread identification using thread-local variables, which is both innovative and efficient. The article humorously clarifies the misconception about the term "futex," revealing it as "fast user-space mutex" rather than a playful portmanteau. The piece is a technical deep dive, offering insights into concurrency and synchronization, with a touch of wit and historical context. (Summary based on 33% of story text.)
Relativty: An open-source VR headset for $200
I'm Maxim Perumal, and along with my friend Gabriel Combe, we created Relativty, an open-source VR headset you can build for just $200. Inspired by Sword Art Online, we wanted to create our own VR games, leading us to develop Relativty, which supports SteamVR and can be customized for various VR devices. While not a consumer product, it's a DIY project made with a soldering iron and 3D printer. Our innovative motherboard, based on the Atmel SAM3X8E processor, costs about $25. Relativty offers 120FPS at 2K, but you can use any display your computer supports. Join our Discord for community support, and check out our GitHub for building instructions. We're also launching Unai, a new company focused on creating a standalone VR headset, and we're hiring for this exciting venture. Visit unai.one for more details.
Controversy: The DIY nature of the project might not appeal to everyone, as it requires technical skills and equipment.
Unique/Clever: The project’s open-source nature and affordability make it accessible for VR enthusiasts and developers, fostering innovation and experimentation.
Are We PEP740 Yet?
The blog post "Are We PEP740 Yet?" on Trail of Bits discusses the implementation of PEP 740, a Python standard for cryptographically verifiable attestations hosted by indices like PyPI. Attestations are digitally signed statements about Python packages, detailing their provenance and ensuring security through Sigstore and short-lived signing keys tied to trusted identities. The site lists the top 360 most-downloaded PyPI packages, indicating which have attestations (green), which were uploaded before attestations were available (uncolored), and which lack attestations (yellow). Users can enable attestations by using a Trusted Publisher or upgrading to the latest PyPA publishing action. If issues arise, users are encouraged to create tickets or submit pull requests. The content is a derivative of Free-Threaded Wheels and Python Wheels, with contributions from many.
Grubhub sold for $650M. Four years ago it was worth $7.3B
Just Eat Takeaway has agreed to sell its U.S. unit, Grubhub, to Wonder for $650 million, a significant drop from the $7.3 billion it paid in 2020. This sale, driven by slowing growth and regulatory challenges like New York City's fee caps, marks the end of Just Eat's troubled U.S. venture, which reportedly destroyed over $7 billion in shareholder value. The deal includes $500 million in senior notes and $150 million in cash. Despite the lower valuation, the market reacted positively, with Just Eat's shares rising 20%. Analysts suggest Just Eat may need to exit other markets to align with European peers. The transaction is expected to finalize in early 2025. The controversy lies in the dramatic devaluation and the ongoing legal battles over fee caps.
Matrix Client Tutorial
Welcome to the Matrix Client Tutorial, a work-in-progress guide designed to introduce you to creating a client using the Matrix Client-Server API. Matrix is an open protocol for decentralized communication, enabling users on different servers to communicate seamlessly. This tutorial is ideal for those developing a Matrix library/SDK, writing a Matrix client without one, or seeking a deeper understanding of Matrix. It assumes familiarity with JSON encoding, HTTP requests, and asynchronous coding. The tutorial employs a literate programming style, interleaving code and text, and uses Python with aiohttp. While the example code aims to illustrate API usage rather than create a fully-featured library, it provides a foundation for simple applications. The source code is available on GitLab, and the tutorial will guide you through creating a basic echo bot and exploring end-to-end encryption.
Neal Stephenson on History, Spycraft, and American-Soviet Parallels
In a conversation with Tyler Cowen, Neal Stephenson discusses his novel "Polostan," which intriguingly revisits the Soviet era, diverging from his usual futuristic themes. Stephenson explains his interest in history and the rise of autodidacts who explore historical topics through modern media. The discussion touches on espionage, highlighting the psychological toll on spies and the potential sociopathy involved. Stephenson also reflects on the challenges of faking one's death in today's surveillance-heavy world and his preference for writing longhand to improve his creative process. The conversation delves into the allure of Soviet communism for Western intellectuals, noting their idealistic yet often naive perspectives. A surprising element is Stephenson's use of fancy Italian paper to encourage thoughtful writing, though he admits it hasn't reduced his paper usage. The conversation also explores the implications of leaked secrets, both historical and contemporary, and the potential for AI secrets to be similarly exposed. (Summary based on 31% of story text.)
Smart Dating Assistant – AI-Powered Help for Better Matches and Conversations
Hey hackers,
I've been developing an AI-powered dating assistant aimed at enhancing dating profiles, crafting messages that elicit responses, and offering real-time guidance—all informed by insights from over 30,000 real dating interactions. Our mission is to elevate the dating experience for users. We're thrilled to offer an early-access beta test where you can explore some of the core features firsthand. You can try it out here: beta link. I'm here to answer any questions, gather your feedback, and discuss potential improvements. I'm excited about the opportunity to create something exceptional together!
CATL Founder Burns Elon Musk
In a recent article on CleanTechnica, the focus was on CATL's innovative move into EV platforms and founder Robin Zeng's candid remarks about Elon Musk. Zeng criticized Musk's approach to the 4680 battery, predicting its failure and questioning Musk's understanding of electrochemistry. He described a debate where Musk was left silent, likening it to bold trash talk. Zeng also accused Musk of setting unrealistic timelines, suggesting it could lead to trouble. These comments are controversial, challenging Musk's expertise and honesty, especially given Tesla's significant ties to China. Musk's response, if any, will require careful diplomacy to avoid jeopardizing Tesla's business interests in China.
Academic papers yanked after authors found to have used unlicensed software
An academic journal retracted two papers after discovering the authors used unlicensed software, FLOW-3D, for their research on dam failures. This decision followed a complaint from Flow Science, the software's developer. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between copyright law and academic publishing, as researchers often face challenges in accessing necessary tools and distributing their work. The controversy underscores the broader debate on open access versus paid access to research, with advocates pushing for more accessible dissemination of taxpayer-funded studies. The issue of copyright compliance extends to tools used in research, complicating the landscape further. Notably, a 2023 study revealed a record number of retractions, over 10,000, emphasizing the growing scrutiny in academic publishing.
S/Sed/Ed
In "s/sed/ed," Artyom Bologov passionately defends the use of the antiquated text editor, ed, over its more modern counterpart, sed. Bologov argues that ed offers unique advantages, such as the ability to interactively test and undo regex operations, making it a valuable regex playground. He highlights ed's flexibility with files and buffers, allowing for state retention and interactive editing, which sed lacks. Bologov acknowledges some missing features in ed, like script file handling and looping, but finds these minor compared to ed's strengths. The post challenges the mainstream preference for sed, suggesting that ed's capabilities are underestimated and could offer more powerful scripting solutions. The surprising element is Bologov's dedication to ed, an editor often dismissed as outdated, and his ability to showcase its potential in modern programming contexts.
Visual Basic 6 IDE recreated in C#
The "Avalonia Visual Basic 6" project is a recreation of the classic Visual Basic 6 Integrated Development Environment (IDE) and language, developed in C# using Avalonia. This project is intended as a fun, non-commercial endeavor, allowing users to experience VB6 with modern technology. It features a visual designer, the ability to save and load projects in a VB6-compatible format, and limited VB6 language support. The project can be built using .NET 9.0, with an option to use .NET 8.0 for the desktop version. It stands out by offering a nostalgic experience of VB6 while leveraging contemporary development tools.
My simple knowledge management and time tracking system
In my blog post, I share my straightforward approach to knowledge management and time tracking, which revolves around two plain text files: notes.txt and worktime.txt. In notes.txt, I jot down essential commands, procedures, and company-specific information, ensuring I can easily recall them when needed. Worktime.txt helps me track my daily work hours and tasks, with a Python script calculating weekly totals. This system, which I've used for over fifteen years, is refreshingly simple, avoiding the complexities and potential obsolescence of more elaborate systems. While some might prefer sophisticated tools, my minimalist method offers significant benefits with minimal effort.
Beelink mini-PC docking station supports desktop GPU
The Beelink mini-PC docking station introduces a novel approach to enhancing mini-PC capabilities by supporting desktop GPUs through a proprietary PCIe connector. This innovation, featured in the Beelink EX Docking Station, allows users to connect a desktop graphics card and includes an internal power supply. The docking station can be paired with Beelink's GTi Ultra mini PCs, which have a PCIe connection slot. This setup not only boosts graphics performance but also offers improved WiFi capabilities through optional external aerials. A unique aspect of this solution is its proprietary connection method, which circumvents the limitations of standard PCIe riser cables. However, a potential controversy lies in the choice of using a 12th-gen Intel Core processor in late 2024, which may seem outdated to some consumers. Despite this, the combination of enhanced graphics and compact design makes it a compelling option for those seeking a powerful yet space-efficient computing solution. (Summary based on 41% of story text.)
Show HN: The Billy Bass I put on the Internet
In this playful project, I've revived an old Big Mouth Billy Bass by connecting it to the internet, allowing users to upload MP3s and animate the fish's movements in sync with the audio. The process involves using a web interface to set animations for the mouth, head, and tail, which are then recorded and sent back as videos. This quirky endeavor is more about the fun of creation than practicality, and while it doesn't generate revenue, donations are welcome. The backend is a mix of Python and PHP, with a Raspberry Pi handling the fish's operations. The project is a testament to creativity and the joy of tinkering, though it raises questions about data privacy and copyright.