The way people search for information online is undergoing a seismic shift. Traditional search engines like Google, Bing, and Yahoo have long been the go-to tools for finding answers on the internet. However, fewer and fewer users rely on these platforms as AI-powered alternatives gain traction. But what is causing this decline? What does the future hold for search engines? And will AI-driven chats replace search engines entirely? Let’s explore these pressing questions.

Why Are Fewer People Using Traditional Search Engines?

1. Rise of AI-Powered Assistants

The emergence of AI chatbots such as ChatGPT, Google Bard, and Microsoft Copilot has given users instant, conversational answers without sifting through multiple search results. Instead of clicking through pages of links, users can now receive precise, well-structured responses in seconds.

2. Search Quality Concerns

Many users have expressed frustration with traditional search engines due to increasing spam, SEO-optimized but low-quality articles, and an overabundance of ads. Search results are often cluttered with paid advertisements, making it difficult to find genuine, useful information.

3. Growing Popularity of Social Media as a Search Tool

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Reddit are becoming alternative sources of information. Younger users, in particular, prefer searching for product reviews, recommendations, and even news on social media rather than traditional search engines.

4. Personalized and Direct Responses

AI-driven tools provide more tailored answers, understanding user intent better than keyword-based search engines. Instead of browsing multiple sources, users can get a direct answer that fits their specific query.

The Future of Search Engines: Adapt or Disappear?

1. AI Integration into Search Engines

Tech giants are already incorporating AI into their search engines. Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) aims to blend AI-generated responses with traditional results, while Microsoft Bing integrates AI-powered chat features. This hybrid approach might be the future of search.

2. Voice Search and Conversational AI

Voice search is becoming more prevalent with smart assistants like Siri, Alexa, and Google Assistant. As AI improves, users may prefer spoken queries over typing, pushing search engines to become more conversational and intuitive.

3. More Subscription-Based or Ad-Free Models

To combat ad overload and spam, search engines might introduce premium, ad-free experiences. This shift could lead to better quality search results for paying users while free users continue seeing ad-heavy content.

4. A Decline in Traditional Websites?

As AI chatbots summarize information, fewer people may visit individual websites, leading to decreased traffic for online publishers. Content creators and businesses may need to adapt by optimizing content for AI-driven searches rather than traditional SEO.

Will AI Replace Search Engines Completely?

While AI-driven chats are revolutionizing information retrieval, search engines are unlikely to disappear entirely. Instead, they will evolve. AI chats are excellent for direct answers but lack the ability to explore multiple perspectives, in-depth research, or real-time updates. A combination of AI chat and traditional search is the most probable future.

The landscape of online search is changing rapidly. While fewer people rely on traditional search engines due to AI advancements, declining search quality, and the rise of social media as a search tool, search engines are not obsolete yet. Instead, they will evolve to integrate AI while maintaining their core function: organizing and presenting the world’s information. The future of search may not be about choosing between AI and search engines—but rather, finding the best balance between the two.

The Best AI Chatbots, Image Generators, and Sound Creators in 2025

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing how we interact with technology, providing smarter, more efficient tools for communication, creativity, and content generation. Here’s a look at the best AI-powered chatbots, image generators, and sound creators available today.

Best AI Chatbots

1. ChatGPT (OpenAI) – One of the most advanced AI chatbots, offering human-like conversations, coding assistance, and content creation.
2. Claude (Anthropic) – Focuses on ethical AI interactions, delivering thoughtful and safe responses.
3. Google Gemini – A strong competitor in AI chat, integrating Google’s vast knowledge base with AI-generated insights.
4. Microsoft Copilot – Integrated with Bing and Microsoft 365, offering AI-driven assistance for work and productivity.

Best AI Image Generators

1. DALL·E (OpenAI) – Generates high-quality, creative images from text prompts, perfect for art and design projects.
2. MidJourney – Known for stunning, highly detailed AI-generated artwork with customizable styles.
3. Stable Diffusion (Stability AI) – Open-source AI image generator that allows deep customization and fine-tuning.
4. Adobe Firefly – A professional-grade AI art tool integrated with Adobe Creative Cloud.

Best AI Sound and Music Generators

1. Suno AI – Creates original AI-generated music with lyrics based on user prompts.
2. Aiva – Composes symphonic music for films, games, and personal projects.
3. Boomy – AI music creator that helps users produce songs quickly, even without prior experience.
4. ElevenLabs – Specializes in realistic AI-generated voiceovers for narration and content creation.

AI-powered tools are continuously evolving, providing new possibilities for creativity and efficiency. Whether you're looking for conversational AI, digital art, or AI-generated music, these tools represent the cutting edge of what's available today.

#google #searchengine #AI #future #internet #technology

In today's digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping industries from healthcare to finance. Now, the political arena is beginning to experience this transformative wave. This article examines the role of AI in politics, weighing its potential to replace human politicians against the indispensable qualities of human leadership.

The Rise of AI in Political Landscapes

AI's influence in politics is already evident. Modern political campaigns employ AI to analyze vast datasets, predict voter behavior, and craft targeted messages. Governments use AI for policy analysis, monitoring public sentiment, and even managing public services like traffic and resource allocation. These applications underscore AI's ability to process information rapidly and efficiently—qualities that are essential in an era where data is king.

Yet, the prospect of AI fully replacing politicians remains a subject of intense debate. While AI can enhance decision-making by providing data-driven insights, the multifaceted nature of governance suggests that technology may best serve as a powerful tool rather than a complete substitute for human judgment.

Potential Advantages of AI-Driven Governance

There are several compelling benefits to integrating AI into political decision-making:

• Data-Driven Decision Making:
• AI systems excel at analyzing large volumes of data to identify trends, which can lead to more informed policy decisions.
• Efficiency and Speed:
• By processing information in real time, AI can offer immediate solutions to pressing challenges, potentially streamlining bureaucratic procedures.
• Reduction of Human Bias:
• When designed properly, AI algorithms can minimize subjective bias, leading to decisions that are more objective and transparent.
• Enhanced Transparency and Accountability:
• AI tools can monitor governmental operations continuously, flagging inconsistencies and corruption, and thereby promoting greater transparency.

Limitations and Ethical Dilemmas

Despite these advantages, several significant challenges prevent AI from replacing human politicians entirely:

• Lack of Emotional Intelligence:
• Political leadership requires empathy, moral judgment, and the ability to connect with constituents on a personal level—qualities that AI currently cannot replicate.
• Accountability and Responsibility:
• When an AI system makes a decision, pinpointing responsibility becomes complex. The absence of clear accountability in AI-driven decisions raises serious concerns.
• Ethical and Privacy Considerations:
• The deployment of AI in governance involves extensive data collection and surveillance, posing risks to individual privacy and civil liberties.
• Complexity of Political Decisions:
• Political challenges often involve nuanced cultural, historical, and ethical dimensions that require human discretion. AI may struggle to navigate these gray areas effectively.

Real-World Applications and Case Studies

Across the globe, several pilot projects illustrate how AI can assist—but not replace—political leadership. For example:

• Smart City Initiatives:
• Many urban centers use AI to optimize traffic flow, manage public utilities, and enhance emergency response systems. These applications demonstrate how AI can improve public service delivery without directly influencing political decision-making.
• Election Analytics:
• Political campaigns increasingly rely on AI to interpret voter sentiment and forecast election outcomes. While these tools help shape campaign strategies, the final decisions remain in human hands.

These examples highlight that, so far, AI is predominantly seen as a support mechanism, augmenting the capabilities of human politicians rather than supplanting them.

The Future of AI in Political Decision-Making

Looking ahead, the future of AI in politics is likely to be characterized by a symbiotic relationship between technology and human governance. Rather than envisioning a scenario where AI completely replaces politicians, experts foresee a hybrid model where:

• Human-AI Collaboration:
• AI provides analytical support and operational efficiency, while human leaders apply empathy, ethical judgment, and strategic vision.
• Enhanced Policy Formulation:
• By integrating AI insights, policymakers can design more effective and responsive policies that address complex societal issues.
• Strengthened Democratic Processes:
• With proper regulation and oversight, AI can bolster transparency and accountability in governance, potentially reducing corruption and enhancing public trust.

While the idea of AI replacing politicians sparks fascinating debates, the reality is far more nuanced. AI offers remarkable benefits in terms of efficiency, objectivity, and data analysis, yet it falls short in replicating the human elements of empathy, moral reasoning, and accountability that are essential for effective political leadership.

In the foreseeable future, the most promising approach appears to be a collaborative model—one where AI serves as a vital tool that supports and enhances human decision-making in politics. By harnessing the strengths of both technology and human insight, society can strive toward a more transparent, efficient, and responsive political system in the digital age.

#politics #AI #democrats #republicans #technology

The possibility of alien civilizations visiting Earth has long fascinated humanity. Stories of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have been part of human culture for decades, but in recent years, the number of reported sightings has surged worldwide. With new government disclosures and advanced technologies capable of detecting mysterious aerial phenomena, the question arises: Could these UFOs represent alien visitors?

A Surge in UFO Sightings

In recent years, the frequency of UFO sightings has increased dramatically. Reports come from all corners of the globe, often accompanied by videos, radar data, and eyewitness testimony. In the United States alone, the Pentagon has declassified multiple videos showing unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP), objects that exhibit flight characteristics defying known human technology.

Some sightings are easily explained—misidentified aircraft, weather phenomena, or experimental military technology. However, a small percentage of cases remain unexplained, fueling speculation about extraterrestrial visitors.

The Capabilities of UFOs

Many UFO sightings describe objects with extraordinary capabilities, including:

• High-Speed Maneuvers: UFOs often appear to accelerate or change direction at speeds that exceed the capabilities of human-made aircraft.
• Anti-Gravity Flight: Witnesses frequently report objects hovering silently or moving without observable propulsion systems.
• Cloaking or Disappearing: Some UFOs seem to vanish abruptly or camouflage themselves against their surroundings.

If these reports are accurate, they suggest technology far beyond our current understanding of physics, raising the possibility that these objects could be of extraterrestrial origin.

Could Alien Civilizations Reach Earth?

For an alien civilization to visit Earth, it would need to overcome immense challenges posed by interstellar travel:

1. Distance: The nearest star system, Alpha Centauri, is 4.37 light-years away. Even traveling at the speed of light—an insurmountable feat with current human technology—the journey would take over four years.
2. Energy Requirements: The energy needed to power a spacecraft across such distances would be staggering. Advanced propulsion systems, such as warp drives or wormholes, remain theoretical.
3. Biological Constraints: Long-duration space travel poses significant risks to living organisms, including radiation exposure and the effects of microgravity.

However, an advanced civilization might possess solutions to these challenges. Concepts like artificial intelligence, robotic probes, or cryogenic stasis could enable interstellar exploration without requiring the physical presence of biological beings.

Alternative Explanations

While the extraterrestrial hypothesis is compelling, other explanations for UFOs should not be overlooked:

• Advanced Human Technology: Secret military projects could account for some sightings. Hypersonic drones or experimental aircraft might appear alien to civilian observers.
• Natural Phenomena: Atmospheric anomalies, ball lightning, and optical illusions can create the illusion of unidentified objects.
• Psychological Factors: The human brain is prone to pattern recognition and misinterpretation, particularly when confronted with unfamiliar stimuli.

Government Involvement and Disclosure

Governments around the world have started to take UFOs seriously. In 2021, the U.S. Department of Defense released an unclassified report on UAP, acknowledging that many sightings remain unexplained. Meanwhile, other countries, such as Japan and Brazil, have also documented UFO encounters and encouraged pilots to report sightings.

These developments have led to calls for greater transparency and international cooperation in studying UFO phenomena. Scientific organizations are beginning to analyze UFO data rigorously, treating it as a legitimate field of inquiry rather than fringe science.

What If They Are Visiting?

If alien civilizations are indeed visiting Earth, the implications would be profound. Such an event would challenge our understanding of physics, biology, and technology. It would also raise ethical and existential questions:

• How should humanity respond to a confirmed extraterrestrial presence?
• Would contact be beneficial, or could it pose risks to our species?
• What would it mean for our understanding of life in the universe?

While UFO sightings continue to captivate public imagination, the evidence for alien visitation remains inconclusive. Advanced technologies and increased government transparency may one day provide definitive answers. Until then, the possibility of alien civilizations visiting Earth remains an open question, a tantalizing mystery that pushes the boundaries of our scientific and philosophical understanding.

#ufo #alien #technology #space #science

As we step into 2025, the convergence of finance and technology is poised to redefine global economies, markets, and societies. With rapid advancements in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and green finance, the coming year promises both unprecedented opportunities and complex challenges. Below, we explore key trends and developments likely to shape the future of global finance and technology in 2025.

1. The Rise of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs)

Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) are expected to dominate conversations in 2025 as more nations advance their pilot programs or fully launch digital versions of their currencies. Countries like China, the EU, and India have made significant strides in CBDC adoption, focusing on increasing transaction efficiency, reducing costs, and enhancing financial inclusivity.

CBDCs could also reshape cross-border payments, traditionally slow and expensive, making them faster and cheaper. However, concerns about privacy, surveillance, and the disintermediation of banks will remain key challenges.

2. Artificial Intelligence Revolutionizing Finance

AI's role in finance is set to deepen, impacting areas such as:

• Personalized Banking: AI-powered chatbots and virtual financial advisors will provide highly personalized customer experiences.
• Fraud Detection: Sophisticated AI algorithms will improve the detection and prevention of fraud in real-time.
• Investment Strategies: AI-driven hedge funds and robo-advisors will make data-informed, adaptive investment decisions.

Regulation of AI in finance will become more critical as its use grows, particularly to address biases in algorithms and ensure accountability in automated decision-making.

3. Decentralized Finance (DeFi) and Blockchain Expansion

DeFi continues to evolve, offering decentralized alternatives to traditional banking services such as lending, borrowing, and trading. In 2025:

• Institutional adoption of blockchain technology will rise, particularly for supply chain financing, smart contracts, and digital asset management.
• Regulatory clarity around cryptocurrencies and DeFi protocols will become a pressing issue, with frameworks expected to emerge in jurisdictions like the U.S. and the EU.
• Sustainability in blockchain operations will garner attention, leading to the adoption of eco-friendly consensus mechanisms like Proof of Stake.

4. Green Finance and ESG Investing

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) investing is no longer optional but a core strategy for companies and investors. 2025 will see:

• Green Bonds: Issuance of green bonds reaching new heights as companies seek funding for renewable energy and climate adaptation projects.
• Climate Risk Assessment Tools: Enhanced data analytics and AI models to evaluate the financial risks posed by climate change.
• Sustainability Metrics: Investors will demand greater transparency and standardization in ESG reporting to avoid greenwashing.

5. The Integration of Quantum Computing

Quantum computing, although in its early stages, is expected to impact cryptography, risk modeling, and portfolio optimization:

• Financial institutions will explore quantum algorithms to enhance trading strategies and risk assessments.
• Concerns over the vulnerability of current encryption standards to quantum attacks will drive investments in quantum-resistant cryptography.

6. Fintech and Super Apps

Fintech companies will continue to blur the lines between traditional finance and technology:

• Super Apps: In markets like Asia, super apps integrating banking, e-commerce, and payments will expand globally.
• Embedded Finance: Seamless integration of financial services into non-financial platforms, such as offering credit at the point of sale, will gain traction.
• Digital Wallets: Adoption of digital wallets and contactless payments will further rise, fueled by convenience and security.

7. Geopolitics and Economic Policies

Geopolitical dynamics will play a significant role in shaping global finance:

• U.S.-China Rivalry: Competition in technology and finance will persist, influencing global supply chains and trade agreements.
• Economic Sanctions: Digital currencies may provide alternatives for nations looking to bypass traditional sanctions.
• Monetary Policy: Central banks worldwide will navigate inflation concerns, potentially embracing innovative tools to maintain stability.

8. The Role of Regulation

Regulation will be at the forefront of the 2025 agenda, particularly in:

• Governing the use of AI and machine learning in financial markets.
• Establishing clear rules for cryptocurrency exchanges and DeFi platforms.
• Protecting consumer data amidst increasing digitization.

International collaboration among regulators will be essential to create a cohesive framework for the rapidly evolving global financial landscape.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

2025 will present unique challenges:

• Cybersecurity threats will intensify as systems become more interconnected.
• Ethical concerns around AI and blockchain technology will demand thoughtful oversight.
• Balancing innovation with inclusivity will remain a critical priority for policymakers and corporations.

However, the opportunities are equally significant. The integration of cutting-edge technologies into finance offers the potential for greater efficiency, equity, and sustainability in global economic systems.

2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal year for global finance and technology. The fusion of these domains, underpinned by innovation and regulatory frameworks, will determine how societies navigate the complexities of a digital, interconnected, and climate-conscious world. Stakeholders—from governments to businesses and consumers—must adapt to harness these changes while addressing the associated risks. The decisions made in 2025 will undoubtedly echo far into the future.

#finance #technology #blockchain #AI #crypto #cryptocurrency

The concept of robots and artificial intelligence (AI) replacing humans has fascinated and alarmed people for decades. With rapid advancements in technology, this question has evolved from science fiction to a pressing reality in various industries. While AI and robots are already transforming how we work and live, the complete replacement of humans is a complex issue that extends beyond technology into ethics, economics, and societal impacts.

The Role of Robots and AI Today

Currently, robots and AI are adept at handling specific tasks, particularly those that are repetitive, data-intensive, or dangerous for humans. Examples include:

• Manufacturing and Logistics: Automated assembly lines and warehouse robots like those used by Amazon have revolutionized industries by increasing speed and efficiency.
• Healthcare: AI-powered diagnostic tools, surgical robots, and patient care systems are enhancing healthcare delivery.
• Customer Service: Chatbots and virtual assistants are handling customer queries, booking appointments, and resolving issues.
• Creative Fields: AI tools are generating music, art, and written content, offering new avenues for creativity and productivity.

Despite these advances, AI and robots currently function best as tools to complement human capabilities rather than replace them.

Limitations of AI and Robots

Several inherent limitations prevent robots and AI from fully replacing humans:

1. Lack of Creativity: While AI can mimic creativity, true innovation and originality remain uniquely human attributes.
2. Emotional Intelligence: Robots lack empathy and the ability to build deep human connections, which are essential in fields like teaching, therapy, and caregiving.
3. Complex Problem-Solving: Many real-world problems require nuanced judgment and ethical considerations, areas where AI struggles.
4. Unpredictable Environments: AI systems excel in controlled settings but falter in dynamic, unpredictable environments requiring adaptability.

These limitations suggest that while AI may excel in narrow applications, its ability to replace humans entirely remains constrained.

Predictions for the Future

Experts predict that the future of AI and robotics will involve incremental automation rather than a sudden replacement of humans. Some key milestones include:

• By 2030: Significant automation in routine and repetitive jobs such as data entry, basic customer service, and manufacturing.
• By 2040: Expansion into more complex roles, including aspects of law, medicine, and creative industries, with humans overseeing and guiding AI systems.
• By 2050 and Beyond: Potential breakthroughs in general AI could enable robots to perform tasks requiring adaptability, creativity, and decision-making. However, full human replacement is unlikely, as technology will still require ethical oversight and human collaboration.

The Collaborative Model

Rather than a replacement, the future is likely to see humans and AI working together in a collaborative model. Robots and AI will handle repetitive and data-intensive tasks, freeing humans to focus on areas requiring critical thinking, creativity, and interpersonal skills. This collaboration could lead to greater productivity and innovation across industries.

Challenges and Ethical Considerations

The rise of robots and AI raises critical questions:

• Job Displacement: How do we ensure fair transitions for workers displaced by automation?
• Bias and Inequality: How do we prevent AI systems from perpetuating or exacerbating societal biases?
• Autonomy and Control: At what point do machines gain too much autonomy, and how do we regulate their actions?
• Privacy and Security: How do we safeguard personal data in an increasingly automated world?

Addressing these challenges will be essential as AI and robotics continue to evolve.

Conclusion

While robots and AI have the potential to transform industries and reshape society, the complete replacement of humans is unlikely in the foreseeable future. Their role will be to complement and enhance human abilities, creating opportunities for innovation and efficiency while raising critical ethical and societal questions. Ultimately, the relationship between humans and technology will define how this transition unfolds, ensuring that AI and robots serve humanity rather than displace it.

#robots #AI #robot #tech #technology

The internet, a global network that has fundamentally reshaped the way we live, work, and communicate, has a relatively short history. But within this digital realm, there exist websites that can be considered ancient in internet terms. These websites not only offer a glimpse into the early days of the World Wide Web but also remind us of the rapid evolution of technology. Let's take a journey through cyberspace as we explore the five oldest websites in history.

• CERN - The First Website

In the late 20th century, a team at CERN, the European Organization for Nuclear Research, led by Tim Berners-Lee, developed the World Wide Web. The first website ever created was dedicated to explaining the World Wide Web concept itself. This website went live in 1991 and was hosted on Berners-Lee's NeXT computer. It featured a simple explanation of how to set up a web server and how to access the earliest web pages. Today, this piece of internet history is available at its original URL, allowing you to see how the first website looked.

• Gopher - The Gopher Project

While the World Wide Web quickly overshadowed the Gopher protocol, Gopher was a significant player in the early days of the internet. Developed in 1991 by Mark P. McCahill at the University of Minnesota, the Gopher Project aimed to create an organized and user-friendly way to access information. Gopher's simplicity made it popular, and at its peak, it was considered a serious rival to the World Wide Web. You can still explore the Gopher protocol today on the Internet, showcasing the history of online information retrieval.

• The WWW Virtual Library

Before search engines like Google made finding information on the web effortless, the WWW Virtual Library played a crucial role in organizing web content. Created in 1991 by Tim Berners-Lee himself, this site was a directory of various subject areas, all curated by volunteers. It was one of the earliest attempts to categorize and organize the growing expanse of information on the internet. Although it's no longer as prominent as it once was, the Virtual Library remains accessible, offering a fascinating snapshot of the internet's early days.

• The Internet Movie Database (IMDb)

IMDb, the internet's go-to source for movie and television information, was founded in 1990 by Col Needham. It started as a collection of movie lists on Usenet before evolving into a full-fledged website in 1993. IMDb allowed movie enthusiasts to search for information about films, actors, and directors well before online databases became the norm. Today, it stands as one of the most popular websites for movie and TV enthusiasts.

• The British Monarchy Website

The British Monarchy's official website made its online debut in 1994, becoming one of the earliest examples of a government or institution establishing an online presence. The site provided information about the British Royal Family, its history, and current events. Over the years, it has evolved to include multimedia content, live streaming, and a comprehensive archive of royal-related information.

The internet has come a long way since its inception, and these five websites represent a historical journey through cyberspace. From the birth of the World Wide Web at CERN to the pioneering days of Gopher and the early attempts at organizing online information, these websites have paved the way for the digital age we now take for granted. Exploring these virtual time capsules allows us to appreciate how far we've come in the realm of online communication and information sharing. While these websites may not be as flashy or dynamic as contemporary sites, they are valuable reminders of the internet's humble beginnings.

#internet #cern #history #web #tech #technology

The NFT market has now virtually disappeared. Recent research shows that the vast majority of NFT tokens have no value and basically cannot be sold for any amount.

In the technological world, 2021 can be called the "year of NFT" (Non-Fungible Token). NFT transactions are estimated to have reached a total value of $25 billion over these 12 months, with August 2021 being particularly impressive when NFT sales reached a record $2.8 billion. However, the situation now seems completely different. According to a study published by dappGamble, in July this year the NFT market saw only $80 million in turnover, which is only 3% of the result achieved in the mentioned record month. But that's not all. This study analyzed 73,257 different NFT collections and found that as many as 95% of them, or 69,795 collections, currently have no market value. As a result, approximately 23 million people who invested in these token assets now have NFT wallets that are not worth a penny.

Additionally, it turns out that as many as 79% of all NFT collections remain unsold, which means that the supply of these assets far exceeds the demand. However, the NFT problem goes beyond the market aspect. The huge energy consumption in creating these tokens is another significant issue. The study focused on nearly 196,000 NFT collections that were generated but failed to find a buyer, consuming as much as 27.8 gigawatt hours of energy in the process. According to the results of this study, this is the equivalent of 16,200 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions, equivalent to the annual energy consumption of 2,000 homes, the emissions of 3,500 cars or the carbon footprint of 4,000 passengers traveling from London to Wellington, New Zealand.

In the current market, which includes 8,850 top NFT collections, it is noticeable that as many as 1,600 of them currently have no specific value. Of those that do have a price, 41% are valued between $5 and $100, while less than 1% are valued above $6,000. This clearly shows the contrast to the roaring success that NFTs had in their early days. However, it is important to remember that there are situations where NFTs still have practical applications and provide value. They can authenticate limited products, provide access to exclusive events or content, and integrate with games and other projects to provide additional functionality. Even though there is a visible decline in interest in NFTs, there are still areas where this technology can play an important role.

It is worth recalling that many NFT owners were lured into the trap by investing millions of dollars. They sued image creators, intermediaries, and celebrities who "encouraged" people to make purchases.

#nft #crypto #technology #money #token

New cars collect personal data to a large extent. For this reason, they can be a nightmare for their owners - these are the conclusions reached by the non-profit organization Mozilla Foundation, which compiled a list of the 7 worst companies.

Mozilla is best known for its popular web browser. But a nonprofit organization called the Mozilla Foundation also analyzes how various products and services on the Internet use data. Against this background, new cars fare dismally, being the worst category ever tested.

Mozilla conducted its review on the American market. GDPR is in force in Europe, giving car owners certain basic rights regarding data protection and collection. Nevertheless, this does not always work in practice.

A lot of data falls into the hands of producers

Mozilla examined 25 car manufacturers for data. Unfortunately, none of them received a positive rating. According to company representatives, modern models collect a huge amount of sensitive personal data. These include: facial expression, weight, health data or addresses we went to.

"Many people think that the car is a private space where you can call the doctor, talk to your child on the way to school, cry after breaking up with your partner or go to places you don't want anyone to know about," he says. Jen Caltrider, head of the Privacy Unaccounted for project.

“It no longer corresponds to reality. In terms of privacy, all new cars are nightmares on wheels. They collect a huge amount of personal data," he adds.

“New Cars is the worst product category Mozilla has ever reviewed,” Caltrider says.

How do cars collect data?

They do this using sensors, microphones, cameras or a connected smartphone. Thanks to them, manufacturers can recreate an almost complete picture of the owner of a given car.

As if that were not enough, a lot of data is also collected using mobile applications and manufacturers' websites. It is worth remembering that automotive companies may sell or share this data with other entities.

Additionally, there is no way to check whether the data collected is always securely encrypted.

The worst producers

Mozilla has not issued a safety certificate to any car brand. However, she pointed out those that stand out in an even more negative way than others - at least on the American market.

• Nissans collect data on the behavior, health diagnoses and sexual activity of the car owner
• In its privacy policy, Kia also gives the right to monitor the car owner's sexual life
• Volkswagen collects information about whether the driver wears seat belts and, for example, how he uses the brake. At the same time, it checks the age and gender of the car owner
• Mercedes installs the TikTok application in its latest models, which has been criticized many times for protecting privacy and has even been banned by some organizations
• Subaru - in cars of this brand, passengers are considered their users, so they automatically agree to the collection of data. It is up to the driver to inform them that the car collects so much private information
• Tesla is underperforming in all categories rated by Mozilla. What's worse, if we turn off the Internet in a car of this brand, it may cause "serious damage" - says the manufacturer
• Hyundai has the right to send data to the police and authorities even without a formal request

Data leaks are not an accident

It is important to realize that if the above information falls into the wrong hands, it could have disastrous consequences. What's worse, such a scenario is not impossible at all. After all, Volkswagen, Audi, Toyota, Tesla and Mercedes have "fallen victims" of data leaks for millions of users in recent years.

Most car manufacturers refrained from commenting on the results of Mozilla's analysis. In turn, companies that respond to the allegations claim that the car owner can always turn off "inconvenient" functions.

However, if he does this, he will not be able to use many important car systems, e.g. from a safety point of view.

#cars #car #technology #private #privatedata #vehicles

French senators have passed a controversial section of a justice law that allows law enforcement to secretly activate microphones and cameras in suspicious devices. This decision also opens up the possibility of quick access to geolocation data to track individuals under investigation.

The government explains that this is a tool introduced under the Justice Act, known as the "Keeper of the Seals". It is designed to capture images and recordings of individuals believed to be associated with terrorism, organized crime, or crime. Defenders of civil liberties spare no words of criticism. They warn that this recipe could turn any device into a surveillance tool. The Observatory of Digital Freedoms describes this as "overkill."

La Quadrature du Net expresses concern about the potential scope of this provision. The group warns that it's not just phones and computers that are affected - even baby monitors and televisions can become data collection points for law enforcement.

There is outrage at the Paris Bar, the organization representing lawyers. The lawyers regret that the government did not take them into account during the drafting process. "This new ability to remotely activate any electronic device is a serious invasion of privacy that cannot be justified by law enforcement." They also raise the alarm about the lack of clarity in the protection of communication between lawyer and client, calling it "an unacceptable violation of professional secrecy and the right of defence".

The introduction of the regulations still requires the approval of the National Assembly. Justice Minister Eric Dupond-Moretti reassures that there is no need to panic. It ensures that appropriate mechanisms are in place to prevent abuses. A key element is the need to obtain a judge's approval for any surveillance request under this provision. The technical manner in which such cases of surveillance would be carried out was not specified.

#france #eu #invigilation #technology #police #smartphones #smartphone

Hollywood writers went on strike over pay this week, but the decision by companies like Netflix and Disney to use artificial intelligence to replace human writers in the future only fuels anger and fear among the protesters.

AI programs such as ChatGPT, which have an increasing ability to amazingly mimic human conversation, are raising concerns across many industries. As such, the White House called a meeting with Big Tech this week to discuss potential threats. As part of weekly talks with studios and streaming platforms that ended Monday, the Writers Guild of America has asked for binding contracts to govern the use of artificial intelligence. According to the proposal, nothing written by AI can be considered "literary" or "source" material - industry terms that govern who receives royalties - and scripts written by WGA members cannot be "used to train AI." However, according to the WGA, the studios "rejected our proposal" and responded with a proposal to meet once a year to "discuss advances in technology".

The writers' strike is gaining momentum after the statements of streaming platforms that writers in the future may be replaced by artificial intelligence. Netflix and Disney have confirmed that they allow the use of algorithms.

"It's nice that they're offering a meeting about how they're using this against us!" joked WGA negotiating committee member Eric Heisserer, who wrote the script for Netflix's Bird Box. “Art cannot be made by a machine. You are losing the heart and soul of history... I mean the first word is 'artificial', he told AFP during a picket outside the streaming giant's headquarters. While writers already know this, the danger is that "we have to watch tech companies destroy business trying to find out," he said.

While few of the television and film writers who spoke to AFP believe their work could be replaced by computers, for many it was an added blow that studios and streaming platforms believe in the possibility of such a replacement. Screenwriters fear that Hollywood executives, where Silicon Valley companies have overturned many traditional practices such as long-term contracts for screenwriters, may try to cut costs even further by forcing computers to write more blockbusters. The statements of Hollywood's top executives at the Milken Institute Global Conference in Beverly Hills did not dispel the writers' fears in any way. "In the next three years, you're going to see a movie that's been written by AI and shot…good," said film producer Todd Lieberman. “Not just scripts. Editing, everything… scriptwriting, whatever,” added Fox Entertainment CEO Rob Wade. "AI in the future, maybe not next year or next year, but if we're talking about 10 years? Artificial intelligence will be able to do absolutely all of these things.”

Even for sci-fi writer Ben Ripley, who believes AI plays no role in writing, the introduction of legislation "to put up barriers" is "very necessary". Writers "have to be original," he said. "Artificial intelligence is the antithesis of originality."

#netflix #disney #ai #artificialintelligence #movies #film #technology

The system developed at the University of Texas in Austin (USA) - an artificial intelligence connected to an MRI scanner read the thoughts of volunteers. For now, it still makes mistakes, but in the future, similar devices could help people who are unable to communicate normally.

During the experiment, volunteers listened to a story or imagined telling it. Their brains were observed with the help of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and the artificial intelligence connected to it turned people's thoughts into text consistent with them. Importantly, no electrodes were needed to be implanted in the brain, and the person using the invention was not limited to a predetermined list of words, the researchers emphasize. However, the system requires special training - each person using it listens to podcasts for several hours, during which the computer watches his brain. "For non-invasive methods, this is a real leap forward compared to what was previously achieved, i.e. usually reading single words or short sentences" - says Prof. Alex Huth, author of the paper, which appeared in the journal "Nature Neuroscience". "Our model decodes long-term, continuous speech on complex topics," he emphasizes.

For now, the computer is not very accurate - it reads thoughts quite precisely in about 50 percent. However, he can often convey the meaning of the utterance. For example, he translated the thought, "I don't have a driving license yet," into "she hasn't started learning to drive yet." Listening to the thought, "I didn't know whether to scream, cry, or run away," he read as "She started screaming and crying and then she said 'I told you to leave me." The system was also good at reading the minds of the volunteers when they watched the videos. The creators of the program also addressed the topic of its possible abuses. They assure that at least currently it is impossible to read someone's mind if the person does not want to. It is also impossible to do it with someone with whom the system has not undergone a long training. “We take concerns about abuse very seriously and are working to prevent them. We want to make sure that people use these technologies when they want to, and that it helps them," said Jerry Tang, who led the research. Scientists hope that their idea will allow for the construction of devices that will allow people currently unable to communicate with the world, e.g. after severe strokes. The current version of the system only allows for its use in the laboratory, but according to the researchers, this can be changed - for example, instead of a large MRI scanner, it is likely that a much smaller device designed for non-invasive functional near-infrared spectroscopy can also be used.

#austin #usa #ai #artificialintelligence #technology #tech #future #science

After three years, the German coronavirus warning app stops warning users about exposure to infection. It is not even known how effective this application was.

According to former German chancellor Angela Merkel, the application was supposed to be a milestone in the fight against coronavirus.

Three years have passed, all pandemic restrictions have been lifted, and the most important feature of the application has just been disabled: warnings after contact with a person infected with Covid-19.

"It makes no sense (to keep alerts) with the low incidence we have now," said German Health Minister Karl Lauterbach. He added that Covid-19 is no longer so severe also due to the high immunity of the population.

On June 1, the coronavirus alert app will go into sleep mode. This means it will no longer be updated and will also disappear from the Google and Apple app stores. However, users can keep the app on their mobile phone if, for example, they have saved their vaccination certificates there and want to continue using them. Lauterbach also urged users to keep the app in case of another Covid-19 outbreak - or even a pandemic. - It may be that we need to reuse it for Covid-19. But it may also happen that we develop it further for other infectious diseases,' he said.

According to the German Ministry of Health, since its launch almost three years ago, the app has been downloaded a total of 48 million times. However, it is impossible to say how many people actively used it. Obtaining accurate statistics is not possible because the data from the application was only stored locally on the mobile phone for data protection reasons.

The German Ministry of Health is to investigate how effective the application was. The app cost the government €220 million – much more than originally planned.

#germany #health #covid19 #covid #tech #technology #app