After three dynamic years and over 100 issues, the TechScape newsletter reaches its grand finale. What a journey it has been, from paternity leaves to AI summits and even a cryptocurrency boom-bust cycle! Let’s dive into some of the most pressing tech questions that have been stirring curiosity.
Leaked TikTok documents from 2019 shed light on unsettling policies that aligned with Chinese foreign policy. These documents revealed that TikTok censored specific topics, such as Tiananmen Square and Tibetan independence. Though TikTok claims these policies are outdated, concerns remain about the company’s independence from the Chinese state.
Computer scientist Ray Kurzweil’s prediction that we will be able to duplicate a person’s mind in a computer within 20 years remains contentious. Kurzweil’s ‘singularity’ has been perpetually ’20 years away’ for the last 30 years, raising skepticism. Furthermore, the focus has shifted towards AI solving the problem of uploading human brains, rather than faster computers enabling it.
Regarding the future of tech giants Facebook and Google, it is safe to say that they are no longer at the cutting edge. While they continue to profit substantially, the excitement and attention have shifted elsewhere. Nevertheless, their efforts to lead in AI could rejuvenate their significance.
When it comes to smartphone innovation, foldable phones appear to be the next big thing. Though currently expensive and somewhat flawed, they represent the most novel designs in the industry over the past decade. Industry insiders predict that once Apple enters this market, foldable phones will gain widespread recognition.
The changing perception of technology in recent years is hard to ignore. Once seen as a source of optimism, the industry now faces scrutiny and anxiety about its societal impact. Despite this, the allure of interesting, well-paid work continues to draw talented individuals.
Soulsborne games, crafted by Hidetaka Miyazaki and notorious for their difficulty and unique narrative style, hold a special place in gaming culture. However, the beloved ‘Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild’ remains unrivaled as the best game ever, offering a rich, all-ages experience.
In terms of impactful technological advancements, machine transcription and translation stand out. These tools have enhanced communication and reporting efficiency significantly, enabling near-real-time intelligibility across different languages without drastically altering global online communities.
As this chapter closes, the author steps back for a brief hiatus before exploring new ventures. Stay tuned for more amazing stories from a fresh lineup of writers ready to take you on the next tech journey. It has been a pleasure sharing insights and stories with you.
Source: Theguardian