Hacker NewsMonday, July 7

A critique of modern tech companies and capitalism, focusing on how AI and algorithms manipulate consumers through apps like Hinge and Uber. The author argues these practices are unethical, with companies constantly optimizing for profit while eroding social values, leading to a system that's increasingly difficult to reform or escape.

This article discusses the evolution of computer interfaces from visible controls to hidden ones, highlighting the shift from "knowledge in the world" (visible, intuitive controls) to "knowledge in the head" (memorized commands). It emphasizes how modern devices increasingly rely on hidden controls, making them less user-friendly despite appearing simpler.

The article criticizes how major tech companies force AI integration into their products without user consent, despite low consumer demand (only 8% would pay for it). Companies like Microsoft and Google bundle AI features into essential services, making it impossible for users to opt out while hiding potential financial losses.

The blog posts discuss challenges faced by myNoise, a website offering ambient sounds. The owner describes dealing with a malicious server attack, shares his commitment to environmental responsibility through tree planting, and details a successful server migration with help from a supportive technician. He reflects on the balance between creation and destruction while maintaining his mission to provide a peaceful online space.

A guide for introverts on effective networking, covering preparation, first impressions, conversation techniques, and follow-up strategies. It emphasizes authentic connection over performative networking, suggesting specific tactics like strategic pauses, thoughtful listening, and intentional follow-ups to make meaningful connections without changing one's personality.

Hannah Cairo, a 17-year-old student, solved the long-standing Mizohata-Takeuchi conjecture in harmonic analysis while taking classes at UC Berkeley. Her mathematical talent led her to disprove a widely believed theory from the 1980s, earning recognition from the academic community and setting her path toward a Ph.D. at the University of Maryland.

A modern test shows that CGI, a 90s-era web technology once considered inefficient due to its process-per-request model, can now handle substantial web traffic effectively when using modern programming languages like Go and Rust, challenging long-held assumptions about CGI's performance limitations.

A study reveals that decades of overfishing have genetically altered Eastern Baltic cod, causing them to evolve into much smaller sizes. Using DNA analysis of fish otoliths, researchers found that genetic variants for larger body size became less common over time, making the evolutionary change potentially irreversible.

Volvo Trucks has delivered its 5,000th electric semi truck, achieving a significant milestone compared to Tesla's 140 trucks. With operations in over 50 countries and 100 million miles logged, Volvo leads the heavy electric truck market with a 47% share in Europe and 40% in North America.

A DNS enthusiast explores how DNS LOC records can track physical locations, showcasing a unique project that uses DNS to display the International Space Station's real-time coordinates. The implementation utilizes N2YO's API and deSEC's DNS services to update the ISS position every 15 minutes.