The hottest Substack posts right now

according to Hacker News
Category

The Trojan Kid

Technically Optimistic • 39 implied HN points • 08 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Data Privacy Online safety Legislation Privacy Social media
  1. The Kids Online Safety Act aims to protect children online, give parents more control, and hold big tech accountable by age-gating, granting parents access to social media content, and imposing a duty of care on platforms.
  2. Legislation targeting teen mental health should consider various factors beyond social media impacts, such as economic insecurity, gun violence, and climate change.
  3. Proposed tech regulations like age verification may have unintended consequences, such as creating barriers for certain communities and endorsing authoritarian parenting styles.

My End of 2024 Update

Human Programming • 77 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Research Entrepreneurship AI Software Product Design
  1. Human programming research is shifting focus to work with AI models instead of humans. This means developing systems that help AI operate more efficiently.
  2. The author has been involved in several software projects, including a consulting role where they created tools to enhance AI and web products. These experiences allowed them to explore different collaborative environments.
  3. They plan to take some time for exploration and research in AI, particularly focusing on self-modifying programs. This will allow them to deepen their understanding of both AI concepts and practical product development.

RDEL #34: How do developers adopt new tools? (with Monica Bajaj, VP Developer Experience at Okta)

Research-Driven Engineering Leadership • 19 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Tools Development Engineering Software Innovation
  1. Engineers build trust in tools through factors like usability, testing, documentation, support, flexibility, security, maintainability, and extensibility.
  2. Biggest challenges in tool adoption include lack of usability, cost, integrations, and organizational support.
  3. Managers can evaluate tool effectiveness by considering the effort (onboarding, adoption, integration, customization) and impact (productivity, quality, cost).

The Future of P4: One Perspective

Systems Approach • 353 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🕹 Technology Networking Technology Trends Programming Hardware Software
  1. P4 language is more than just Tofino chips, it has many backend targets like SmartNICs and IPUs.
  2. The distinction between 'open' and 'closed' forwarding pipelines is crucial, even fixed pipelines can be flexible.
  3. P4's value lies not just in quantifiable metrics, but also in its ability to abstract packet forwarding pipelines effectively.
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This Week: OpenAI, Figma, Calendly

Good Better Best • 4 implied HN points • 19 Dec 25
💼 Business Pricing Product AI Monetization Growth SaaS
  1. OpenAI made Projects free for all ChatGPT users, pushing a habit-forming feature downstream to boost engagement, stickiness, and likely retention that can be monetized later.
  2. Figma set explicit AI credit limits (150/day, 500/month), following a daily-cap + monthly-ceiling play that trades near-term margin for platform growth, but the proliferation of different credit systems risks confusing customers and causing credit fatigue.
  3. Calendly moved its AI Notetaker out of beta and joins a wide race to own meeting transcripts and summaries, since notes are highly sticky and embed tools into workflows; pricing and packaging of these features will reveal each company’s strategy.

#16 - A "Cautious Coalition" of Democracies: What Grand Strategy for AI Safety? + Sycophancy

Navigating AI Risks • 39 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Policy AI Public Opinion Global Governance Industry
  1. The idea that democracies should be in control of transformative AI over authoritarian states like China is well-grounded.
  2. A 'cautious coalition' strategy suggests that democracies should lead in AI to reduce risks associated with states that do not regulate AI for safety.
  3. It is important for democratic governments to balance the desire to maintain AI lead with global governance arrangements that involve all key players, including China and other autocracies.

Introducing WhatsApp Domination: The All In One Course to Monetize WhatsApp.

Day One • 579 implied HN points • 10 Jul 20
💼 Business E-commerce Sales Marketing Entrepreneurship Course
  1. To make money on WhatsApp, focus on effective strategies beyond just posting products or sending broadcast messages.
  2. Module One of the course teaches essential steps to grab attention on WhatsApp, like avoiding common mistakes and building an audience.
  3. Module Two covers creating sales-driven content and understanding key principles to sell more effectively to your WhatsApp audience.

The "AI-first" trap 🪤

Year 2049 • 26 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Product Design Innovation AI Cognitive Bias Startup Culture
  1. Sometimes we focus too much on technology instead of solving real problems. It's important to ask if there’s a simpler way to deal with the issue at hand.
  2. Over-relying on familiar tools can lead us to use them in situations where they don’t fit, like the Juicero juicer which was overly complex.
  3. To avoid getting stuck in the 'AI-first' trap, we should start with simple solutions and really understand the problems we're trying to solve.

Number Theoretic Transform with RVV

Fprox’s Substack • 83 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Algorithms Computing Software Development Mathematics Cryptography
  1. The Number Theoretic Transform (NTT) helps speed up polynomial multiplication, which is important in cryptography. It uses a smart method to do complicated calculations faster than traditional methods.
  2. Using RISC-V Vector (RVV) technology can further improve the speed of NTT operations. This means that by using special hardware instructions, operations can be completed much quicker.
  3. Benchmarks show that a well-optimized NTT using RVV can be substantially faster than basic polynomial multiplication, making it crucial for applications in secure communications.

dbt Labs acquires Transform - who's next?

Data Thoughts • 119 implied HN points • 19 Feb 23
💼 Business Acquisitions Technology Data science Market Trends Analytics
  1. dbt Labs has bought Transform, and more companies in the data field might be sold or closed soon. This could lead to big changes in the industry.
  2. Data teams are seen as a 2nd order need for businesses, meaning they aren't absolutely necessary. Companies may cut these teams first when they need to save money.
  3. To get the best value from tools, data practitioners should focus on essential needs rather than extra features. This means keeping an eye on what really matters in the data ecosystem.

Q&A with IBM CEO Arvind Krishna

More Than Moore • 93 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
💼 Business AI Partnerships Innovation Revenue Technology Consulting
  1. IBM is focusing on consulting, cloud services, AI, and research, as it no longer has a consumer division. Companies turn to IBM for help in improving efficiency and upgrading their technology.
  2. The launch of new AI models, like Granite, shows IBM's commitment to innovation in AI. They believe smaller, more efficient models are the future, making AI cheaper and easier to use.
  3. IBM is changing its approach to partnerships, focusing on collaboration with other companies instead of competing. This strategy helps enhance their offerings and build stronger business relationships.

Wang Yongli clarifies China's issuance of USD-denominated Sovereign Bonds in Saudi Arabia

Pekingnology • 83 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
💰 Finance Economic strategy International Finance Public Debt
  1. China recently issued its first US dollar sovereign bonds in Saudi Arabia, which was very successful and attracted lots of international interest. This shows that global investors trust China's creditworthiness.
  2. There has been some exaggerated talk on social media claiming this bond issuance is a big blow to the US dollar. However, these claims are misleading and don't reflect the usual practice of governments issuing bonds in various currencies.
  3. Wang Yongli, a financial expert, emphasized that the bond issuance does not aim to disrupt the US currency or its economy. It's more about China's normal efforts to raise funds in international markets.

Lessons For Startup Founders From A TPM

Building Rome(s) • 5 implied HN points • 09 Dec 25
💼 Business Leadership Operations Startups Product Management Communication Scaling Strategy
  1. Keep clarity even when the future is uncertain: set a simple vision, tactical goals, timeframes, and clear owners so the team can scale without heavyweight process.
  2. Prioritize ruthlessly and learn to say no; using a “no log” helps the team see what you intentionally set aside and keeps focus on what matters.
  3. Build minimal, evolving systems that prevent chaos and surface hidden work—use a single roadmap, release-based planning, regular demos, decision logs, and launch checklists to make dependencies and debt visible.

The Anti-Defamation League Defames Substack

Karlstack • 366 implied HN points • 08 Apr 23
🕹 Technology Online Platforms Defamation Social media Censorship
  1. ADL criticized and called for the deplatforming of several Substack writers for promoting conspiracy theories.
  2. There is suspicion that Substack was blocked by Twitter as retaliation for launching a new feature similar to Twitter.
  3. The incident involving the ADL, Substack, and Twitter is a developing story that has caused confusion and concern among content creators.

We Are the Robots

Breaking Smart • 79 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Human machine Design Cultural impact AI Robotics
  1. Robots today are moving in more fluid and organic ways, unlike the stiff, mechanical movements we used to see. They can express emotions that feel similar to human feelings, showing a blend of technology and life.
  2. The arts and technology are evolving together, with artists often inspired by new machine capabilities. This relationship highlights how our understanding of what is human or machinic is gradually shifting.
  3. As machines become more complex and organic, people may feel anxious or fearful of them. Our interactions with technology can influence how we view ourselves and what it means to be human.

We're hiring: Daily newsletter writer

The Works in Progress Newsletter • 24 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Health Economics AI Innovation Science
  1. There's a job opening for a daily newsletter writer. The role includes finding and sharing interesting news about science, technology, and economic progress.
  2. The newsletter will focus on linking to articles, podcasts, and videos that people interested in progress will love. It's like a daily update for curious minds.
  3. To apply, you'll need a resume, a writing sample, and some links to content you think others should see. They want someone who enjoys exploring the internet and sharing cool finds.

UX Roundup: UX in the Street | AI Video | Infinite Scroll | Simplicity vs. Features | Logo as Coin | AI Blooper | Midjourney Animation

Jakob Nielsen on UX • 32 implied HN points • 23 Jun 25
🕹 Technology User Experience Usability Video creation AI Tools UX Design
  1. Infinite scrolling can create problems for users by making it hard for them to find what they need. It's often better to use pagination or a 'load more' button to give users more control.
  2. Adding too many features to a product can confuse users and make it harder for them to complete tasks. It's important to focus on simplicity and clarity in design.
  3. AI tools for video creation are improving, but they often still need better integration and usability. Users will have a better experience if they can create videos easily without complex prompts.

Why Removed HBO Max Originals Return in Other Formats

Textual Variations • 265 implied HN points • 06 Oct 23
🕹 Technology Streaming platforms Audience engagement Media industry Content Distribution
  1. Original content removed from streaming platforms may not be permanently erased and can often be reissued on other formats.
  2. Different types of streaming originals exist, such as acquired originals, house originals, and co-originals, each with unique relationships with the streaming platform.
  3. The removal and reissuing of streaming originals can be driven by a combination of factors including cost savings, streaming performance, and better revenue opportunities on other platforms.

The Ways Microsoft Security Copilot Can Enhance Security Operations with Microsoft Sentinel

Rod’s Blog • 39 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Automation Security Analytics Cloud AI
  1. Security teams face challenges such as complexity in handling large volumes of security data from various sources like logs and alerts, making analysis overwhelming, especially during cyberattacks.
  2. There is a skills gap in the market for skilled security professionals, leading to a lack of resources and expertise within security teams to manage all security tasks effectively.
  3. To address challenges, security teams need solutions that simplify security data and tasks, empower them with AI and machine learning capabilities, and protect the organization from cyberthreats by leveraging the latest threat intelligence.

Approaching the wood

The Uncertainty Mindset (soon to become tbd) • 119 implied HN points • 22 Feb 23
📖 Philosophy Human experience Existentialism
  1. Not-knowing is something we all deal with, but it can be seen as a chance to learn and grow rather than just a problem to handle. Embracing not-knowing can lead to better outcomes.
  2. When working with materials like wood, we can either try to eliminate imperfections or learn to work with them to enhance our final product. This approach can lead to more unique and lively creations.
  3. The way we handle uncertainty in life can be similar to how we deal with materials. Instead of seeing constraints as negative, we can view them as opportunities to creatively adapt and improve.

31 well known businesses that launched during recessions.

Jon’s Newsletter • 139 implied HN points • 04 Dec 22
💼 Business Economics Entrepreneurship Startups History Innovation
  1. Many successful companies were created during tough economic times. This shows that challenges can spark innovation and new ideas.
  2. Starting a business in a recession often means lower competition and the chance to fill gaps in the market. This can help new businesses stand out.
  3. The stories of these companies remind us that adversity can lead to creativity and growth, proving that tough times can produce great opportunities.

The State

Fake Noûs • 342 implied HN points • 20 May 23
📖 Philosophy Fairness Utilitarianism Authority Anarchism Social contract
  1. The problem of authority in political philosophy questions the basis for political legitimacy and obligation.
  2. The Utilitarian Account suggests the state's authority comes from providing social order, but doesn't explain unnecessary laws.
  3. Anarchism challenges the notion of state authority, advocating for minimal coercive activities and privatization of necessary government functions.

World Models are Coming and They are Awesome

TheSequence • 84 implied HN points • 08 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Machine Learning Generative AI 3D Modeling Data science AI
  1. This week saw the release of two exciting world models that can create 3D environments from simple prompts. These models are important for advancing AI's abilities in various fields.
  2. DeepMind's Genie 2 can generate interactive 3D worlds and simulate realistic object interactions, making it very useful for AI training and game development.
  3. World Labs has introduced a user-friendly system for designing 3D spaces, allowing artists to create and manipulate environments easily, which can help in game prototyping and creative workflows.

The Big Development Project: How much should it cost?

Dev’s Substack • 13 HN points • 25 Apr 24
💼 Business Analysis Development Investment Budgeting Finance
  1. Performing a double worst-case analysis can help determine a reasonable price for a software investment based on the project's business value.
  2. ROI (return on investment) calculation considers total benefits, total costs, and time horizon to assess project profitability.
  3. Setting a target cost for development budget based on the minimum acceptable ROI and apportioning costs between development and operational can guide budget planning.

Shape, Symmetries, and Structure: The Changing Role of Mathematics in Machine Learning Research

The Gradient • 87 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Machine Learning Theoretical Research AI Mathematics
  1. Mathematics is playing a bigger role in machine learning by connecting with fields like topology and geometry. This helps researchers create better tools and methods.
  2. It's not just about scaling up current methods; there's a need for new approaches based on mathematical theories. This can lead to more innovative solutions in machine learning.
  3. Mathematicians should view advancements in machine learning as chances to explore and deepen their theoretical work, not as threats to their field. Embracing these changes can lead to new discoveries.

GroupBy #12: AWS re:Invent 2023, Druid and ClickHouse at Lyft, Apache Hudi History

VuTrinh. • 39 implied HN points • 05 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Software Development Data Analytics Data Engineering Cloud Computing Machine Learning
  1. AWS re:Invent 2023 announced new features focused on improving data storage and processing. This includes faster storage options and AI capabilities for better data insights.
  2. Lyft switched from using Druid to ClickHouse for their analytics needs. This change was driven by a need for faster data query responses.
  3. Apache Hudi was created to help manage data in a more efficient way. It enables incremental data processing, making it easier to work with large amounts of information.

Should You Pick A CIAM Solution That Implements Standards?

ciamweekly • 62 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🕹 Technology User Authentication Cybersecurity Software Development Identity Management
  1. Choosing a CIAM solution that follows standards like OIDC and SAML can enhance security, thanks to the collective expertise of many developers. This leads to fewer vulnerabilities and better protection for users.
  2. Using a standards-based CIAM system makes it easier for your software to work well with existing tools and libraries. This can speed up development since your team is likely already familiar with these standards.
  3. A standards-compliant CIAM solution offers better portability if you need to switch systems later. It allows for shared practices between different solutions, reducing the need to start from scratch when migrating.

ServiceTitan S-1 Breakdown

Tanay’s Newsletter • 82 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
💼 Business SaaS Finance Technology Growth IPO
  1. ServiceTitan is a software company that helps tradespeople like plumbers and electricians run their businesses better. They provide tools for managing customer relationships and service workflows.
  2. The company has been growing quickly, with a revenue increase of 24% in the last year. They make money from subscriptions, payment processing fees, and professional services.
  3. ServiceTitan is preparing for an IPO and plans to manage investor concerns about profitability. They have strategies in place to handle potential valuation drops and minimize shareholder dilution.

One step closer to a Universal Age API

Tech + Regulation • 19 implied HN points • 08 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Social media APIs Online safety Privacy
  1. Meta is working on a Universal Age API that helps determine what apps users can access based on their ages. This is aimed at keeping kids and teens safer online.
  2. The plan includes steps for platforms to share age information, resolve any conflicts, and improve user experiences by not asking for age repeatedly. This will help ensure that kids aren’t exposed to inappropriate content.
  3. There’s a push for better age verification methods and standards to protect younger users online. Different platforms could collaborate to share age data for a safer internet.

Kintsugi: The Art of Mending

Polymathic Being • 80 implied HN points • 15 Dec 24
📖 Philosophy Cognitive Bias Cultural Insights Relationships
  1. Kintsugi is a Japanese art of mending broken things with gold, which symbolizes that beauty can come from flaws and imperfections. It teaches us that just because something is broken doesn't mean it's worthless.
  2. This concept can be applied to relationships, where misunderstandings or conflicts can lead to fractures. By acknowledging and repairing these issues together, relationships can become even more valuable.
  3. To apply Kintsugi in relationships, you need to be open to understanding your biases, carefully listen to others, and work towards forgiveness and growth. It's a process that requires ongoing effort and care.

The right amount of bullshit

Sunday Letters • 139 implied HN points • 12 Dec 22
🕹 Technology AI Entrepreneurship Innovation Engineering Imagination
  1. Finding a balance between creativity and practicality is important. You need to let your imagination run wild while also being careful with details.
  2. Too much confidence without evidence can lead to failures, like in the case of Theranos. But sometimes a little bold thinking can lead to great innovations, like SpaceX.
  3. It's crucial to be in the gray area between being overly cautious and overly confident. This is where the most exciting and new ideas often come from.