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Automated summaries of top Hacker News stories written by a large language model.
Elon Musk won't get his $55B pay package after all
Elon Musk has been denied his $55 billion pay package by a Delaware Court of Chancery judge, which means Tesla's board will have to come up with a new proposal. If the ruling holds up through an appeal, it could threaten Musk's fortune. The package was approved by Tesla shareholders in 2018 and included specific milestones for Musk to achieve. The trial centered around whether Musk misled shareholders when presenting the plan. The judge ruled that the shareholders were not fully informed about the details of the plan and the board's relationship with Musk. The case also highlighted Musk's significant influence over Tesla.
The Weird World of Alternative Buildings
In this article, the author discusses their fascination with alternative building materials and how it inspired their new story, "Shelter from the Storm." They highlight the reasons behind the exploration of alternatives to bricks and concrete, such as the carbon-intensive production of concrete. The author mentions various experimental materials, including bricks made from compacted rubble and rubbish, reinforcement bars made from hemp, and the use of cob, a 10,000-year-old material. They also mention their own idea of combining fungus and spider silk to grow buildings. The author emphasizes that while not all experiments will be successful, the exploration of alternative materials can lead to newer, better, and more interesting ways of building. They encourage readers, including sci-fi writers, architects, and builders, to think outside the box and consider alternative materials for their projects.
In one Oklahoma town, everyone knows someone who has been sued by the hospital
In McAlester, Oklahoma, the local hospital, McAlester Regional Medical Center, has filed close to 5,000 debt collection cases since the 1990s, often represented by the law firm Hackler & Hackler. The hospital's debt collection efforts have caused financial hardship for many patients and their families, with some residents being sued multiple times. Despite efforts in other states to restrict hospital lawsuits against patients, the practice continues in McAlester. The hospital, which operates in the red, provides very little financial assistance to patients, despite its mission to serve the community. The lawsuits have become a source of business for local collection agencies and the Hackler law firm. (Summary based on 93% of story text.)
Microsoft Edge now steals your data from Google Chrome after an update
Microsoft Edge is aggressively trying to get users to switch from Google Chrome by automatically copying all of their active tabs from Chrome. This tactic has gained attention recently as users have noticed that Edge opens up with all of their Chrome tabs after a Windows update, even if Edge has never been used on that machine. It seems that Microsoft is using a setting that imports data from Chrome to Edge every time the browser is launched. Although there is an option to disable this setting, Microsoft is now pushing it on users after Windows updates. Some users have also reported that Edge still imports Chrome data even with the import setting disabled.
Gitlab's ActivityPub architecture blueprint
GitLab is proposing to implement ActivityPub, a W3C standard used by the Fediverse, into its platform. The goal is to build interoperability features that would allow users to open merge requests to projects hosted on other instances of GitLab, creating a global network. The implementation will start with social features, such as allowing users on the Fediverse to subscribe to activities on GitLab and be notified of new releases. This move towards ActivityPub will not only make GitLab more social but also expand its audience. The use of ActivityPub is advantageous because it is built on top of HTTP and JSON, making it easy to adopt and has multiple implementations. (Summary based on 61% of story text.)
We Must Call Time Out on TikTok
In an open letter to the artist and songwriter community, Universal Music discusses the need to "call time out" on TikTok. The letter highlights three critical issues in their contract renewal discussions with TikTok: appropriate compensation for artists and songwriters, protecting human artists from the harmful effects of AI, and online safety for users. Universal Music argues that TikTok pays artists and songwriters a fraction of what other major social platforms pay, and allows AI-generated recordings to dilute the royalty pool for human artists. Additionally, TikTok allegedly does not adequately address copyright infringement or content adjacency issues. Universal Music vows to fight for fair compensation and a safe environment for artists and fans.
Building a USB to Mac ADB keyboard adapter
The author of the web content discusses their experience building a USB to Mac ADB keyboard adapter. They express their dislike for Macs and their preference for Linux. They explain the differences between the Apple and PC keyboard connectors and the need for an adapter. The author provides instructions for building the adapter using the QMK Project and a Pro Micro board. They also mention the challenges they faced and the need for a good quality cable. The author shares their process of designing and 3D printing a case for the adapter. They conclude by stating that while they enjoyed building the adapter, they ultimately prefer their modern external keyboard.
OWA's Review of Apple's DMA Compliance Proposal for the Web
The article discusses Apple's compliance proposal for the EU's Digital Markets Act (DMA) and examines whether Apple intends to allow fair competition for browsers and web apps on iOS. The author highlights three main points of interest: whether browser vendors can bring their own engine to iOS, whether they can implement proper web app support, and whether they can compete fairly with Safari. The author raises concerns about Apple's proposed requirements, including security, privacy, and API implementation, and questions whether Apple will truly allow third-party browsers to install web apps powered by their own engine. The article also mentions Apple's anti-competitive behavior and the need for oversight in implementing the choice screen for default browsers. (Summary based on 40% of story text.)
Corruption Perception Index:Weakening justice systems leave corruption unchecked
The 2023 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) released by Transparency International reveals that most countries have made little progress in combating public sector corruption. The global average remains unchanged at 43, with over two-thirds of countries scoring below 50, indicating serious corruption issues. The Rule of Law Index shows a decline in the functioning of justice systems worldwide, with countries scoring low on the CPI also scoring low on this index. Both authoritarian regimes and democratic leaders undermining justice contribute to increasing impunity for corruption. The CPI ranks 180 countries, with Denmark topping the index for the sixth consecutive year. Transparency International calls on governments to invest in and guarantee the independence of institutions that uphold the law and tackle corruption.
L.A. is being 'stripped for parts.' Here's what the City wants to do about it
Los Angeles is facing a significant problem with copper wire thefts, which have caused safety hazards and cost the city millions of dollars. City officials have recently taken steps to combat this issue, including the proposal of a task force and a standing rewards program for public assistance. The task force would be a collaboration between the Los Angeles Police Department and the Bureau of Street Lighting, with a focus on areas that have been heavily targeted by thieves. The city is also asking residents for help in stopping the thefts through the rewards program. The City Council has introduced several initiatives to address the problem, including the possibility of replacing copper wires with solar-powered lighting.
Why Custom GPTs are better than plugins
The article discusses the advantages of Custom GPTs over traditional plugins. Since OpenAI announced Custom GPTs in November 2023, over 3 million GPTs have been created, with over 200,000 of them publicly available. Custom GPTs come with pre-configured actions and capabilities, making it easier for users to switch conversations depending on the task. Unlike plugins, GPTs can be listed on the "GPT Store" or shared via a direct URL, resulting in more GPTs being available. Adding knowledge to a GPT is as simple as uploading a file, and conversation starters can be provided to users based on the GPT's capabilities. GPTs also support mentioning other GPTs within conversations. Overall, GPTs offer a more intuitive and efficient experience for developers and users.
Satellites Are Becoming the New Cellphone Towers
Satellites are increasingly being used as cellphone towers, allowing for text messaging, voice calls, and data coverage without the need for ground terminals. Companies like Starlink, Amazon, Apple, and AST SpaceMobile are leveraging cheaper satellite fabrication and launch costs to bridge the gap between mobile phones and orbiting satellites. However, there are challenges to overcome, such as the fast movement of low Earth orbit satellites and the need for seamless integration between terrestrial and nonterrestrial networks. Companies are redesigning satellites to have larger antennas and are flying them lower to improve connectivity. Improved beamforming techniques are also being used to enhance signal transmission.
Starlink's Laser System Is Beaming 42M GB of Data per Day
SpaceX's laser system for Starlink is delivering over 42 million gigabytes of data per day, according to engineer Travis Brashears. The laser system is used to drive down latency and improve global coverage for Starlink's high-speed internet service. The lasers can sustain a 100Gbps connection per link and are crucial for transmitting data when no ground station is nearby. The laser system has achieved a link uptime of over 99% and can maintain links for weeks at a time, with transmission rates reaching up to 200Gbps. SpaceX plans to expand its laser system for use on third-party satellites and explore direct data delivery to Earth's surface.
SIM-swapping ring stole $400M in crypto
A Chicago man and his co-conspirators have been charged with stealing $400 million in cryptocurrency through a SIM-swapping scheme. The alleged head of the group, Robert Powell, along with Carter Rohn and Emily Hernandez, targeted over 50 victims in more than a dozen states. SIM-swap attacks involve fraudulently reassigning a cell phone number to a SIM card controlled by a criminal, allowing them to bypass multi-factor authentication and access online accounts. The accused used forged documents and posed as victims at retail stores to carry out their attacks. While many victims did not suffer financial losses, some lost significant amounts of cryptocurrency. The stolen funds must be forfeited if the defendants are convicted. SIM-swap attacks have been increasing in the US, with losses totaling $68 million in 2021. The alleged losses in this case are the largest reported so far. The Federal Communications Commission has implemented new rules to protect consumers from SIM-swap attacks, but there are concerns that the rules may be too vague to be effective.
Beej's Guide to Networking Concepts
"Beej's Guide to Networking Concepts" is a collection of materials that the author originally put together for a class and has now compiled into a volume. The author acknowledges that the document is in an alpha-quality state and may contain errors or incomplete information. They welcome corrections and feedback from readers. The guide is available in various formats, including HTML and PDF, and there are also examples provided. Translators and writers can access the guide on GitHub and contact the author via email.
Farside: A smart redirecting gateway for various front end services
Farside is a redirecting service that provides links to privacy-oriented alternative frontends such as Nitter and Libreddit. It ensures reliable access to available public instances of these services and helps distribute traffic evenly to avoid performance issues. Farside integrates smoothly with redirector extensions in most browsers. The app runs with an internally scheduled cron task that queries instances every 5 minutes to determine their availability. Farside has minimal routing with routes for the home page, redirecting to a working instance, and preserving a landing page in the browser's history. It also implements IP ratelimiting and has options for accessing instances behind Cloudflare.
The Pentagon Tried to Hide That It Bought Americans' Data Without a Warrant
The Pentagon has been purchasing Americans' data without a warrant, according to US Senator Ron Wyden. Normally, obtaining location data from US phones requires a warrant, but police and intelligence agencies have been paying private companies for the data instead, effectively bypassing the courts. Wyden's office has been investigating these sales of location data to the government for years and has uncovered ties between the Department of Defense and "shady companies" that commit privacy violations. The NSA is also reportedly buying Americans' domestic internet metadata. There is currently a debate in Congress over legislation to outlaw these data purchases, with intelligence officials campaigning against the privacy-enhancing measures.
Starlink Space Laser throughput details published
SpaceX's Starlink laser system is delivering over 42 petabytes of data per day, according to engineer Travis Brashears. The system uses lasers to help drive down latency and improve global coverage, especially in areas where no ground station is nearby. The lasers can sustain a 100Gbps connection per link and have achieved a link uptime of over 99%. The system can connect satellites over long distances, even cutting through the atmosphere to transmit data. SpaceX plans to expand the laser system for use on third-party satellites and explore beaming satellite lasers directly to Earth's surface.
Microsoft Edge ignores user wishes, slurps tabs from Chrome without permission
Microsoft's Edge browser is reportedly importing open Chrome tabs and other data without user permission, even if the feature is disabled. The code within Edge's browser settings allows it to import almost all browser data from Chrome every time it is launched. This feature, intended to simplify the process of switching to Edge, is causing privacy concerns as it syncs the data to the cloud if users are signed into a Microsoft account. Users have been reporting problems with the import feature since last year, and despite attempts to disable it, the import still occurs. The issue has been flagged up by multiple sources, and Microsoft has yet to provide a response or fix the problem.
ISBL: Information Systems Base Language Implemented in Tcl
The ISBL project is an implementation of the Information Systems Base Language (ISBL) in Tcl. ISBL is a database query language that provides a more algebraic and intuitive approach compared to SQL. This project aims to convert ISBL expressions into SQL and execute them on an SQLite database. It includes a DSL that closely resembles the original ISBL described in the PRTV paper. The project provides a command line interface and can be used to evaluate ISBL expressions on the command line or within Tcl scripts. The project also includes examples and test scripts for reference.
HTTP Area Codes
The website "HTTP Area Codes" provides a list of HTTP response headers and their corresponding area codes. Each area code is accompanied by an image and a brief description of the location it represents. Some of the more interesting area codes include 404 for Atlanta, GA (Not Found), 418 for Quebec, QC (I am a teapot), and 509 for Eastern Washington (Bandwidth limit Exceeded). The website also includes an image for the area code 443, which represents HTTPS in Maryland. All images used on the site are either public domain or creative commons.
Show HN: Hacker News Client with Htmx and Go
Introducing our new Hacker News client, built using Htmx and Go! We are excited to bring you a fast and efficient way to browse and interact with the popular Hacker News platform. Our client utilizes Htmx, a lightweight JavaScript library, to enable seamless updates and dynamic content loading without the need for complex frameworks. Combined with the power of Go, our client offers a smooth and responsive user experience. Whether you're a seasoned hacker or just curious about the latest tech news, our Hacker News client is the perfect tool for staying informed and engaged. Check it out now on hacc.foo!
Celeste 64
Summary: "Celeste 64" is a small 3D platformer game created by the Celeste team to celebrate the game's sixth anniversary. It allows players to relive the magic of Celeste Mountain alongside the character Madeline. The game was developed in approximately a week and is available for download on the website. It is recommended to play with a controller, and the source code for the project is also available on Github.
Square Kilometre Array prototype 'scope achieves first light
The Square Kilometre Array (SKA) prototype telescope, known as SKAMPI, has achieved first light. Designed by a team from ten different nations and built in China, the model was assembled in South Africa's Karoo region, which will host some of the SKA's thousands of telescopes. Testing began in 2019 and continued until early 2022, resulting in the creation of system design qualification documentation. The SKA team has also enabled robotic operations of the instrument using Docker-based software tools. The first-light observations with SKAMPI have demonstrated its spectral and pulsar capabilities, capturing images of the Southern Sky and detecting the Vela pulsar. The SKA organization is pleased with the results and plans to use the findings to inform the development of other telescopes in the project.
Getting fitter can reduce prostate cancer risk by 35%, study finds
A study suggests that men can reduce their risk of prostate cancer by up to 35% by increasing their cardiorespiratory fitness. Boosting fitness levels by just 3% over the course of a year was linked to a significantly lower chance of developing the disease. The researchers encourage men to engage in activities that challenge their cardiovascular system, such as jogging, cycling, swimming, or brisk walking. The study did not provide specific recommendations on how to achieve a 3% increase in fitness, but suggested finding enjoyable activities that raise heart rate and can be added to a weekly routine. The findings were published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
XFaaS: Hyperscale and Low Cost Serverless Functions at Meta
The paper "XFaaS: Hyperscale and Low Cost Serverless Functions at Meta" describes Meta's internal system for serverless, called XFaaS, which runs trillions of function calls per day on over 100,000 servers. The paper discusses the challenges the authors faced in developing the infrastructure, such as handling load spikes, ensuring fast function startup and execution, global load balancing, high resource utilization, and preventing overload of downstream services. The system architecture includes components like the Submitter, load balancers, DurableQ, Scheduler, and Worker Pool. The paper also highlights performance optimizations like time-shifted computing and cooperative JIT compilation. XFaaS is evaluated based on its ability to achieve high utilization, efficient function execution, and preventing overload. The paper concludes by acknowledging the uniqueness of XFaaS in characterizing a serverless system at immense scale, but also raises questions about the system's effectiveness and the source of utilization data.
Show HN: InsDownloader – an Instagram video/photo downloader
InsDownloader is a free tool that allows users to download and save photos from Instagram without the need to log in or use additional apps. It is compatible with iPhone, Android smartphones, and PCs, and offers the option to choose the quality of the downloaded photos (HD/SD/LD). The service is quick, stable, and user-friendly, with no membership or download limits. InsDownloader allows users to safely backup and preserve their Instagram content, create unique video compilations, analyze trends, and use the downloaded content for creative projects or educational purposes. The website is safe to use and can be accessed from mobile devices as well.
A bold new take on quantum theory could reveal how reality emerges
The author discusses the challenge of understanding how quantum particles give rise to the solid, well-defined world we experience. They suggest that Ludwig Boltzmann's ideas from thermodynamics, specifically his concept of entropy, could hold the key to solving this problem. The author and their colleagues propose that the quantum possibilities are not lost, but rather mixed so thoroughly into the fabric of reality that they are imperceptible. This bold new take on quantum theory could provide insights into how reality emerges.
Jeremy Howard: CUDA for Python Programmers [video](https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=39200049)
In this video, Jeremy Howard discusses CUDA for Python programmers. CUDA is a parallel computing platform and application programming interface (API) model created by NVIDIA. It allows developers to use GPUs for general-purpose computing tasks. Howard explains how Python programmers can leverage CUDA to accelerate their code and take advantage of the power of GPUs. He also provides examples and demonstrations to showcase the benefits of using CUDA in Python programming. This video is a valuable resource for Python programmers looking to optimize their code and improve performance.
OpenAI launches ability for users to invoke GPTs directly in chats by typing " "
OpenAI has launched a new feature that allows users of its ChatGPT AI chatbot to directly invoke GPTs (third-party apps powered by AI models) in conversations. Paid users can now type "@" and select a GPT from a list to bring it into the chat, giving it an understanding of the full conversation. This feature aims to make GPTs more discoverable and useful for different use cases. OpenAI recently introduced the GPT Store, a marketplace for GPTs, and plans to monetize developers' access to their GPTs in the future. However, the company is facing challenges with moderation, as some GPTs have violated OpenAI's terms, including sexually suggestive and political campaigning bots.