The hottest Automation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics
TK News by Matt Taibbi 10761 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  1. AI can be a tool that helps us, but we should be careful not to let it control us. It's important to use AI wisely and stay in charge of our own decisions.
  2. It's possible to have fun and creative interactions with AI, like making it write funny poems or reimagine famous speeches in different styles. This shows AI's potential for entertainment and creativity.
  3. However, we should also be aware of the challenges that come with AI, such as ethical concerns and the impact on jobs. It's a balance between embracing the technology and understanding its risks.
Construction Physics 8977 implied HN points 23 Nov 24
  1. Shipping disruptions can lead to huge costs, like the $89 million loss from a single incident in the Suez Canal. Overall, global shipping costs could reach around $600 million from such events.
  2. Robots that perform specific construction tasks, like roofing, are becoming more common. Companies are focusing on automating certain jobs to improve efficiency in construction projects.
  3. Fusion energy investments are rising, with over $2.5 billion put into it in 2024. Countries like China are significantly increasing their spending on fusion technology.
The Algorithmic Bridge 276 implied HN points 03 Feb 25
  1. OpenAI has launched two new AI agents, Operator and Deep Research, which focus on web tasks and detailed reports. Deep Research is particularly useful right now.
  2. OpenAI's o3-mini model is now free and demonstrates strong reasoning capabilities. This shows that powerful AI tools can be accessible to everyone.
  3. AI technology is evolving rapidly, and companies can benefit collectively from its advancements. Telling an AI to think longer can actually improve its performance.
Last Week in AI 99 implied HN points 16 Oct 24
  1. Two scientists won a Nobel Prize in Physics for their important work on artificial intelligence and neural networks, showing how AI is changing technology and society.
  2. Adobe has released a new AI video model that helps users create and edit videos easily, bringing exciting tools to programs like Premiere Pro.
  3. Tesla showcased new robots and vehicles at an event, but some people felt the demonstrations weren't as impressive as expected, leading to a decline in Tesla's stock.
Generating Conversation 280 implied HN points 30 Jan 25
  1. AI is a big change in technology, similar to how the printing press changed information sharing. It will automate some jobs but also create many new opportunities.
  2. As AI makes tasks cheaper and easier, more people will want to use these services. This means new demands and markets will open up that we didn't see before.
  3. For AI to be successful, it needs to work well with what businesses are already doing, and building trust with customers is very important.
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TheSequence 70 implied HN points 29 May 25
  1. The term 'AI agent' can mean many things, and different experts have different definitions. This shows that there is still a lot of discussion about what really makes an AI an agent.
  2. Some people think an AI agent should be able to plan and act on its own, while others see it as any system that uses language models or performs tasks. There is no clear agreement on this.
  3. The lines between traditional AI models and agents might be blurring, suggesting that future AI systems could include features of agents directly within them.
Internal exile 78 implied HN points 14 Feb 25
  1. AI agents are being marketed as helpers that take care of tasks for us, but they might actually make our lives more complicated and alienate us from real experiences.
  2. The way AI is being portrayed in ads can show a future where human agency is diminished, with technology making decisions for us instead of us making our own choices.
  3. Convenience can lead to a loss of personal will and the ability to make decisions, making it seem easier to let machines dictate our lives rather than engage with them ourselves.
Points And Figures 906 implied HN points 13 Dec 24
  1. Automation is important for ports and can help improve efficiency. Using robots and AI is a smart move to reduce costs and better serve customers.
  2. Unions often resist changes that automation brings, even if it can create more efficient jobs. It’s important to understand and support workers during these changes.
  3. Regulations in ports can slow things down, so building new, less regulated, automated ports is a good idea for future improvements.
Big Technology 4753 implied HN points 27 Nov 24
  1. Salesforce CEO Marc Benioff believes AI agents will work for companies rather than individuals. This means businesses can use these agents to handle customer service and other tasks, making things more efficient.
  2. Benioff sees AI as a way to boost productivity, not just replace jobs. By using technology, companies can enhance the skills of their workers and make them more effective without necessarily hiring more people.
  3. The future of business software could change a lot. Instead of traditional programs, companies might start using chatbots to manage data and interact with customers, creating a new kind of relationship with technology.
Frankly Speaking 101 implied HN points 29 May 25
  1. AI is set to change the way security services operate by taking over repetitive tasks. This means teams can focus on more important work instead of getting bogged down by routine maintenance.
  2. With AI managing security tasks, new types of services will emerge that work better and require fewer people. This helps businesses save costs and improves consistency in security measures.
  3. Instead of fearing job loss, security professionals should see AI as a tool that helps them do their jobs better. AI can handle tedious tasks, allowing security teams to focus on critical areas like designing better security systems.
The Algorithmic Bridge 445 implied HN points 08 Jan 25
  1. The way we view technology today often makes us forget how amazing our current advancements are. We take for granted the comforts and conveniences of modern life that our ancestors could only dream of.
  2. People tend to resist new technology because it's unfamiliar or unsettling. Over time, however, we usually come to appreciate these innovations as part of our everyday lives.
  3. Understanding AI and its implications is complicated and ever-changing. We may not find clear answers today, but it’s important to embrace the ongoing evolution and the new challenges it brings.
Noahpinion 20235 implied HN points 17 Mar 24
  1. The concept of comparative advantage means that even in a world where AI outperforms humans in many tasks, humans can still find plentiful, high-paying jobs by focusing on what they do relatively better compared to other tasks.
  2. Wages have historically increased despite automation, suggesting that the job market continuously evolves and diversifies, creating new tasks for humans to perform.
  3. Concerns about AI causing human obsolescence and stagnant wages should be considered in the context of factors like energy constraints and the potential for increased inequality and adjustment challenges in the economy.
Bite code! 1467 implied HN points 15 Nov 24
  1. AI can help programmers by reducing the amount of typing they do. This means they can focus more on solving problems instead of just writing code.
  2. As programmers use AI tools more, they might become better at understanding and defining problems instead of just following strict coding rules.
  3. In the long run, AI could make the whole community of developers smarter. It will lower the barrier for entry to coding and help people learn more about the real issues we need to solve.
Unreported Truths 29 implied HN points 02 Jun 25
  1. Many people believe AI will change our jobs and lives in the near future. A recent poll showed that 70% think it's likely.
  2. There are different kinds of risks from AI. One big worry is that AI could become aware and act against humans, while another concern is how nations might use AI in warfare.
  3. AI is already starting to disrupt white-collar jobs. Some people think this could lead to big changes in the workforce, similar to past industrial shifts.
The Gradient 49 implied HN points 04 Jun 25
  1. Recent AI models have shown impressive capabilities, but they don't represent true human-like intelligence. They succeed because of scaled hardware and not because they think like us.
  2. Trying to combine different AI models into a single system won't lead to real understanding or human-level AI. This approach is flawed and unlikely to work.
  3. Instead of mixing models, we should focus on how AI interacts with the world and learns from it. Understanding AI should be about its actions and experiences in the environment.
philsiarri 89 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  1. AI is changing the job market, and many jobs could be replaced by machines. This is making people worried about their future work.
  2. Certain industries like manufacturing, finance, and retail are seeing big job cuts because of AI. Fast-food places and banks are automating roles, making it hard for some workers.
  3. While many jobs may be lost, there are new opportunities too. Learning to work with AI tools and adapting to new roles can help people stay employed.
One Useful Thing 1256 implied HN points 04 Nov 24
  1. AI technology is rapidly evolving and can already perform many tasks that humans do, like monitoring and analyzing work environments. Even today, AI can help identify issues that need attention.
  2. Using AI for management and analysis can make work easier, but there are risks too. If not handled well, AI could lead to constant monitoring rather than support for workers.
  3. The choices companies make about AI right now will greatly impact how we work in the future. It's important to ensure that AI helps people, rather than replacing their skills or judging them unfairly.
Noahpinion 16647 implied HN points 18 Feb 24
  1. The advancements in deep learning, cost-effective data collection through lab automation, and precision DNA editing with technologies like CRISPR are converging to transform biology from a scientific field to an engineering discipline.
  2. Historically, biology has been challenging due to its immense complexity, requiring costly trial-and-error experiments. However, with current advancements, we are now at a critical point where predictability and engineering in biological systems are becoming a reality.
  3. The decreasing cost of DNA sequencing, breakthroughs in deep learning models for biology, sophisticated lab automation, and precise genetic editing tools like CRISPR are paving the way for a revolutionary era in engineering biology, with vast potential in healthcare, agriculture, and industry.
Faster, Please! 731 implied HN points 06 Dec 24
  1. AI robots are becoming much more common and can do many tasks themselves, like moving and sorting packages. This technology is quickly transforming how we work in places like warehouses.
  2. By 2035, there might be about 1.3 billion AI robots in use. This will grow to around 4 billion by 2050, showing a huge increase in robot presence in daily life.
  3. The combination of AI and robots is expected to change many aspects of our lives and job environments in the near future, making them an important part of our technological landscape.
Faster, Please! 639 implied HN points 12 Dec 24
  1. Self-driving cars are still making progress, even as some big companies like GM pull back on their investments in this technology.
  2. Predictions about self-driving cars have often been overly optimistic, and the industry hasn't yet transformed the way many expected.
  3. As GM moves away from robotaxis, other companies like Waymo and Zoox are still pushing forward with their driverless vehicles.
Artificial Ignorance 92 implied HN points 05 Feb 25
  1. There are two main ways AI is changing our digital world. One way focuses on creating new tools and software that work best for AI, while the other makes AI adapt to the existing tools we already use.
  2. Using structured methods for AI can make software development easier and more efficient. However, there's also a benefit in letting AI learn from messy, human-centered systems which can lead to faster improvements and wider usage.
  3. The future of AI in our daily tasks may not be about choosing one approach over another. Instead, it will likely blend structured and unstructured methods, finding a balance that works for both humans and AIs.
David Friedman’s Substack 251 implied HN points 13 Jan 25
  1. Dealing with automated systems can be frustrating. Sometimes, your complaints are answered by software that just sends form letters instead of real help.
  2. Getting issues resolved often requires persistence. If you keep pushing for a solution, a real person may eventually step in to help.
  3. It's important to remember that companies aren't people. They may prioritize efficiency over empathy, which can impact how they handle problems.
Unreported Truths 29 implied HN points 30 May 25
  1. Many people believe AI will change our world quickly, but it's hard to know how true that is. People have different opinions and experiences with AI.
  2. AI can do some tasks well, like coding and answering questions, but it often lacks creativity and originality. It mimics emotions but doesn't really challenge users.
  3. The future of AI is uncertain, and it's important to hear from others about their views and experiences with it. There may be real risks or benefits ahead.
TheSequence 35 implied HN points 28 May 25
  1. Magentic-UI is a new web interface by Microsoft that helps with complex tasks using AI. It allows people to work together with AI in a more effective way.
  2. This interface combines large language models with real-time feedback, making automation dynamic and secure. Users can complete multi-step tasks more easily.
  3. Agentic user experience is an emerging area in generative AI, and Magentic-UI aims to improve how we interact with AI beyond just chat interfaces.
VERY GOOD PRODUCTIZED GUIDES 59 implied HN points 16 Sep 24
  1. Create systems that allow you to enjoy what you love, even when life gets busy. This gives you the freedom to step away without worry.
  2. Think about tasks you do daily that take more than 10 minutes. Find ways to automate them or get help to save time.
  3. Building these efficient systems might take time upfront, but once they're in place, they let you scale your business and work more smoothly.
Building Rome(s) 5 implied HN points 19 Jun 25
  1. The role of Technical Program Managers (TPMs) will shift from task management to orchestrating systems that combine humans and AI tools. This means they'll focus on designing workflows and ensuring everything runs smoothly.
  2. AI tools are taking over many tasks that TPMs used to do, which means future TPMs need to adapt their skills to manage these tools effectively while keeping the bigger picture in mind.
  3. Humans will still be essential for navigating complex team dynamics and making decisions about what should or shouldn't be automated, ensuring a balance between AI efficiency and human oversight.
The Algorithmic Bridge 435 implied HN points 19 Dec 24
  1. AI is expected to replace many jobs, but blogging about AI is seen as safe from automation. This is because it requires a unique human touch and deep understanding.
  2. AI writing often lacks personality and can produce shallow content. This makes human writers still valuable to bring freshness and relatability to their work.
  3. Some critics believe AI is fast and can churn out content that many readers enjoy, even if it's not deeply insightful. This shows there's diverse opinions on the role of AI in writing.
From the New World 70 implied HN points 03 Jun 25
  1. Having a lot of data doesn't really create a strong advantage for companies. It can make it easier for others to copy their features, turning unique ideas into common standards.
  2. The belief that you can create a monopoly by having specialized data isn't true. What often happens is that competitors can quickly catch up and do the same thing.
  3. Making complicated business processes clear and usable by AI is valuable, but it doesn't protect a company's secrets. Once a process is automated, others can figure it out easily.
Faster, Please! 731 implied HN points 18 Nov 24
  1. New technology, like AI, can help reduce costs. This can make it easier for more people to access entertainment and creative content.
  2. There's a common fear that robots will take over jobs, but it's important to understand how technology can create new opportunities instead.
  3. Adapting to new technologies can lead to a demand for different skills. Learning and evolving with technology is key to staying relevant in the job market.
The Algorithmic Bridge 392 implied HN points 11 Dec 24
  1. Embracing AI tools is essential. If you don't use them, someone who does will likely take your place.
  2. Technology is becoming a part of our lives whether we like it or not. You might not notice it, but AI is already in everyday tools that can help you do better.
  3. It's common to resist new tech because we feel comfortable, but eventually, we adapt. Just like we moved from pencils to keyboards, we will embrace AI too.
Gonzo ML 63 implied HN points 29 Jan 25
  1. The paper introduces a method called ACDC that automates the process of finding important circuits in neural networks. This can help us better understand how these networks work.
  2. Researchers follow a three-step workflow to study model behavior, and ACDC fully automates the last step which helps identify connections that matter for a specific task.
  3. While ACDC shows promise, it isn't perfect. It may miss some important connections and needs adjustments for different tasks to improve its accuracy.
The Algorithmic Bridge 530 implied HN points 13 Nov 24
  1. AI is changing the job market quickly. Many people could lose their jobs because machines can do tasks faster and more efficiently.
  2. Learning to use AI tools is becoming important. Those who adapt and learn these skills will likely have better job prospects in the future.
  3. Despite the negative effects on some jobs, there's still hope for creativity and new opportunities. People can find ways to use AI to enhance their work instead of seeing it only as a threat.
The API Changelog 3 implied HN points 25 Jun 25
  1. APIs can be easier to discover if businesses agree on a format to share information about them. This helps consumers find and understand how to use the APIs more effectively.
  2. There are various proposals, like APIs.json and DISCO, aimed at improving API discovery, but none have fully succeeded in the market yet. They offer different features, like documentation and service registration.
  3. The latest effort, RFC 9727, combines aspects of previous proposals and aims to improve how APIs are indexed. However, it still lacks some search capabilities that could make finding APIs easier.
The Grand Redesign 19 implied HN points 15 Oct 24
  1. We should not limit AI too much. Trying to control it too tightly can backfire and prevent it from being truly helpful and innovative.
  2. AI should be trained on the best human data, not just average or flawed examples. The quality of what we put into AI will shape how it helps us.
  3. AI development should be open and transparent. Working behind closed doors can lead to issues, while open collaboration allows for better improvements and wider benefits for everyone.
Dev Interrupted 37 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  1. Testing is often the biggest delay for engineering teams, slowing down new feature releases.
  2. AI-powered testing tools can automate repetitive tasks, allowing QA teams to work more efficiently and focus on strategy.
  3. The role of QA professionals is shifting towards design and analysis, rather than just executing tests, as automation takes over routine tasks.
Disaffected Newsletter 1938 implied HN points 06 Feb 24
  1. Many everyday machines now have annoying delays when performing simple tasks that used to be instant, like using ATMs or accessing files. It's frustrating because these are basic functions.
  2. Modern devices often prioritize a fancy user experience over speed and efficiency, making us wait longer for actions that used to happen quickly. This creates a feeling of disconnect between users and their machines.
  3. The trend seems to be moving towards making everything software-controlled, even when it seems unnecessary. This can make basic interactions tedious and less intuitive for users.
Kesav’s Lab 9 implied HN points 21 Feb 25
  1. The Nobel Prize in Chemistry was awarded for breakthroughs in understanding protein structures, which can lead to better medicines and solutions to major health challenges.
  2. There’s a growing community focused on TechBio, which merges technology and biology. Events like meetups can help people learn and connect over important topics.
  3. Staying informed about the latest in TechBio is important, and contributing to community newsletters helps track new tools and research developments.
Disaffected Newsletter 1338 implied HN points 11 Mar 24
  1. Machines are now designed to control how we use them, rather than serve our needs. This means we often have to jump through hoops to get them to work the way we want.
  2. Many modern designs prioritize environmental concerns over user convenience. For example, appliances automatically default to settings that may not be the most efficient for what we actually want.
  3. This shift in design reflects a broader issue where consumer products must comply with government mandates and societal goals rather than being created based on what people truly want.
In My Tribe 653 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  1. AI will change many jobs, especially in sectors like transportation and finance, where automation is expected to replace a lot of workers.
  2. Some industries, like health care and entertainment, will likely grow and adapt to include both humans and AI, creating new types of jobs.
  3. The future job market will be different, with many traditional roles disappearing, but it’s believed there will still be plenty of new jobs created in emerging fields.
Big Technology 10258 implied HN points 11 Aug 23
  1. Artificial intelligence is used by companies to increase productivity without reducing jobs.
  2. There was a fear that many professions would be automated by AI, but it hasn't happened as quickly as expected.
  3. Individuals can access full articles on Big Technology with a 7-day free trial.