The hottest Digital Tools Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Last Week in AI #293 - Apple Intelligence, GitHub's multi-model Copilot, Anthropic's computer-using AI

Last Week in AI • 119 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Apple has introduced new features in its operating systems that can help with writing, image editing, and answering questions through Siri. These features are available in beta on devices like iPhones and Macs.
  2. GitHub Copilot is expanding its capabilities by adding support for AI models from other companies, allowing developers to choose which one works best for them. This can make coding easier for everyone, including beginners.
  3. Anthropic has developed new AI models that can interact with computers like a human. This upgrade allows AI to perform tasks like clicking and typing, which could improve many applications in tech.

This is NOT my essay

Jeff Giesea • 279 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Using AI tools can change how we think about writing and creation. When we use apps to help us, it makes the process different from traditional writing.
  2. The idea of an original creation is becoming less clear. With many voices and influences in AI, it’s hard to say who truly owns the work.
  3. Collaboration with technology might be the new way to create. Instead of being solo artists, we are now partners with our tools, reshaping what creating really means.

Google Gemini 3 Is the Best Model Ever. One Score Stands Out Above the Rest

The Algorithmic Bridge • 1072 implied HN points • 18 Nov 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Google's Gemini 3 model has significantly outperformed its competitors, scoring top marks in 95% of benchmarks. This shows it's a very strong option in the AI space.
  2. One standout feature of Gemini 3 is its advanced reasoning ability, allowing it to carry out complex tasks and provide useful solutions, like translating recipes or generating study materials.
  3. Even though Gemini 3 excels in benchmarks, it's still essential to test it personally to see if it meets individual needs, as not all users may require the latest AI advancements.

AI and Economics Links

In My Tribe • 243 implied HN points • 07 Jan 26
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. AI systems like large language models are deeply shaped by human behavior and social complexity. Using social-science ideas such as complexity theory can help us understand and improve these systems.
  2. AI can recreate historical thinkers to replay debates about technology and work. These recreations highlight disagreements over whether automation causes lasting unemployment or just temporary disruption through creative destruction.
  3. LLMs now let researchers draft and sometimes publish papers far faster than before, enabling quick 'vibe researching' from idea to paper in minutes or hours. This shifts how research is done and raises questions about quality, oversight, and the role of human judgment.

Noah Brier: Things I think about AI

Why is this interesting? • 1025 implied HN points • 13 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. You don't need fancy tricks to learn about AI. Just get a ChatGPT subscription and use it a lot.
  2. Many people underestimate how useful AI can be for their work and creativity. They should give it more effort.
  3. Trust what people say about AI with a grain of salt. Confidence doesn't always mean they know what they're talking about.
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The EdTech Revolution Has Failed

After Babel • 2486 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🚌 Education Digital Tools
  1. Using too many digital devices in schools doesn't seem to help students learn better. In fact, it might be making their test scores worse.
  2. Students often get distracted by things like social media when they're supposed to be learning, which can hurt their ability to focus and remember what they've learned.
  3. Some schools are starting to move away from using devices in the classroom and focus more on traditional teaching methods, which might lead to better outcomes for students.

Even better fix!

atomic14 • 519 implied HN points • 06 Aug 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Improving your skills is important and can be fun. Searching online can help you learn new things.
  2. Making small updates to your work can lead to better results. It's always good to think about how to enhance what you already have.
  3. Sharing your journey with others can invite feedback. It's nice to ask for opinions and involve people in your learning process.

Magic Cards and Knowledge Bottles

Adjacent Possible • 371 implied HN points • 24 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. AI can enhance how we access and share information, making it easier to find expert knowledge on various topics.
  2. The concept of 'knowledge bottles' allows users to tap into curated expert advice whenever they need it.
  3. New technologies like featured notebooks can transform how we interact with content, offering personalized guidance and insights from trusted sources.

Security is Not an AI Problem

Security Is • 159 implied HN points • 02 May 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. AI doesn't really fix security problems well. Many times, the technology just doesn't work in the tough, unpredictable environments that security deals with.
  2. The best results in security often come from simple, clear procedures, not from complex machine learning models. Basic rules can solve most problems effectively.
  3. Generative AI can help with minor tasks but isn't a magic solution for security. It might even confuse people about important issues, rather than clarify them.

Introducing a new way to publish from the Substack app

Substack • 1669 implied HN points • 25 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. The Substack app now has a new mobile editor that lets you write and publish posts directly from your phone. This makes it easier to reach your audience anytime and anywhere.
  2. You can create simple text and image posts, which is perfect for quick updates or sharing casual moments. The app saves your drafts automatically too.
  3. Currently, there are still some limitations, like not being able to edit published posts in the app. More features, like video posts and scheduling, are planned for the future.

Live video on Substack: smarter, simpler, more discoverable

Substack Blog • 309 implied HN points • 02 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Substack has made live video easier to use with tools that help you plan, promote, and share your streams. Now you can invite guests even if they don't have a Substack account.
  2. After your live stream, Substack automatically creates short clips that highlight important moments. These clips can help attract more viewers and subscribers to your content.
  3. You can schedule your live events and even add them to your audience’s calendars, making it simpler for them to join. This way, your streams can keep attracting new audiences even after they end.

The AI Agent Spectrum

Democratizing Automation • 451 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. AI agents need clearer definitions and examples to succeed in the market. They're expected to evolve beyond chatbots and perform tasks in areas where software use is less common.
  2. There's a spectrum of AI agents that ranges from simple tools to more complex systems. The capabilities of these agents will likely increase as technology advances, moving from basic tasks to more integrated and autonomous functionalities.
  3. As AI agents develop, distinguishing between open-ended and closed agents will become important. Closed agents have specific tasks, while open-ended agents can act independently, creating new challenges for regulation and user experience.

The Three Horizons of working together

The Supermesh Blog • 1 HN point • 25 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. There are three horizons of collaboration tools: H1 is about basic communication tools like email and messaging, H2 focuses on cooperation with better organization and task management, and H3 aims for enhanced collaboration through innovative tech.
  2. Horizon 1 tools improve communication but don't significantly change how teams work together. They help relay messages but often miss the bigger picture in terms of collaboration.
  3. Horizon 2 tools encourage cooperation by allowing teams to work together more efficiently, while Horizon 3 tools represent the future, aiming to truly empower teams and foster a deeper sense of collaboration.

LLM Links, 2/1/2025

In My Tribe • 318 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. OpenAI's new AI agent, ChatGPT Operator, can take actions online for users, like booking services. However, some feel it doesn't yet handle more complex tasks very well.
  2. Different users highlight various ways they use AI, showing that it can be useful for specific inquiries, but many still feel they are stuck in old routines.
  3. AI technology is advancing fast, leading to concerns about job loss and social changes. People think the impacts of AI will evolve slowly, despite rapid progress in the tech itself.

Mondays with the Machine: Thinking Out Loud About the Current "AI" Boom-Bubble

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 169 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. New technologies like AI often cause panic as people worry about their impact, similar to how calculators were once banned in schools. Over time, we learn to use these tools responsibly.
  2. AI chatbots can seem human-like, but they are actually complex tools for finding information. Instead of treating them like people, we should learn how to use them effectively for our needs.
  3. While AI can generate a lot of ideas quickly, it lacks the depth and truthfulness that history provides. History gives us valuable lessons, but AI can still help spark new thoughts and start conversations.

"AI Won't Take Your Job, a Person Using AI Will"—Yes, You Using AI Will Replace You Not Using It

The Algorithmic Bridge • 392 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  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.

I made a simple tool to save you from online distractions

12challenges • 257 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. A tool named Nudge helps you block online distractions like news feeds and comments. It's like an ad blocker but for things that distract you from what you want to focus on.
  2. Nudge is free, open source, and has a good user rating. It makes it easier for you to avoid scrolling through unnecessary content while browsing online.
  3. The creator wants feedback and suggestions to make Nudge even better. You're invited to try it out and share your thoughts with him.

3 Tools That Help Me Make Money Blogging As A Busy Part-Time Creator

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 319 implied HN points • 23 Feb 23
💼 Business Digital Tools
  1. Using a headline analyzer can help you create catchy titles. Catchy headlines make people want to click on your content.
  2. Podia is a useful platform for hosting online courses. It can help you earn money by sharing your skills with others.
  3. Gumroad allows you to offer free products while still making money. People can choose to pay what they think is fair, which can lead to unexpected earnings.

Forever Forgetting Sh!t: Navigating Personal Knowledge Management

QUALITY BOSS • 39 implied HN points • 25 Apr 24
🚌 Education Digital Tools
  1. A Personal Knowledge Management System (PKMS) helps you keep track of the huge amount of information we encounter daily. It makes remembering important things easier and less stressful.
  2. Finding the right tools for your PKMS can be challenging. Using too many different apps can create chaos instead of helping you stay organized.
  3. Creating a structured system for storing and retrieving information can boost your creativity and efficiency. It allows you to focus on using your knowledge instead of just trying to remember it.

🏞️ Knowledge Capital unleashed: Maximizing Enterprise Potential with AI Copilots

Work3 - The Future of Work • 157 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Enterprise Copilots are becoming a norm with AI assistants being built by various players to maximize company potential.
  2. Information is vital in organizations and tools like AI assistants can help capture, organize, and use it effectively.
  3. The evolution of Enterprise AI Assistants is expected to progress from basic tasks to executing actions, and companies like Microsoft are leading the way in developing these tools.

Introducing prediction market embeds for Substack

Substack • 319 implied HN points • 29 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Substack now allows users to embed prediction markets from Polymarket in their posts. This can make articles more engaging by providing real-time data on trending topics.
  2. The new feature is launching just in time for the 2024 Paris Olympics, letting writers easily add betting odds on various events. This could enhance the coverage of the Olympics on Substack.
  3. Polymarket is also starting a news site on Substack called 'The Oracle,' which will give insights and analyses based on active prediction markets. This aims to help readers understand global events better.

LLM Links

In My Tribe • 212 implied HN points • 28 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Using AI to do students' writing can take away the benefits of creativity and expression that come from writing practice. It's important for students to engage with the writing process themselves.
  2. AI tools like NotebookLM are changing how we create content, such as podcasts. These tools can generate engaging discussions, but they need to be customizable to suit individual styles.
  3. AI is seen as a powerful tool that can enhance research and intelligence. Instead of just analyzing data, it can help in conducting experiments and discovering new methods in various fields.

Driving Traffic to Your Blog Using Link Bait

Blogging Guide • 179 implied HN points • 02 Aug 23
💼 Business Digital Tools
  1. Creating link bait can attract backlinks to your blog and improve search engine rankings.
  2. Types of link bait include infographics, controversial posts, in-depth guides, interviews, and humorous content.
  3. To promote your link bait, use social media, email marketing, influencer outreach, make it visually appealing, and ensure it is shareable.

How to Embed a Substack Form in Your WordPress Site

Kristina God's Online Writing Club • 119 implied HN points • 01 Feb 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. You can easily add a Substack sign-up form to your WordPress site. This helps more people subscribe to your newsletter directly from your website.
  2. Setting it up is straightforward if you have a Substack account. Just copy some code from Substack and paste it into your WordPress site.
  3. Testing the setup is important to confirm everything works well. After you add it, try signing up yourself to see how it looks.

2024 Predictions

The Polymerist • 232 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
💼 Business Digital Tools
  1. Artificial Intelligence will reshape the Chemical Industry.
  2. Private Equity operators in the Chemical Industry need to focus on rebuilding companies and going digital.
  3. Predictions for 2024 involve leveraging AI and restructuring business strategies.

Side Effects of outsourcing our Thinking

Poems, Short stories and other things.. • 29 implied HN points • 08 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Relying too much on smart tools makes us lazy thinkers. We should still use our brains to analyze and understand things instead of just taking shortcuts.
  2. AI can help us save time but it's important to keep our memories and reasoning sharp. We shouldn't let AI do all the thinking for us.
  3. While AI has the ability to remember everything, it's not always a good idea. Sometimes forgetting helps us move on and making tools that remember everything can be harmful.

Duplicating Published Decks

Pine • 19 implied HN points • 11 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. You can now duplicate published decks in your own Pine workspace. This makes it easier to use existing materials and adapt them for your needs.
  2. When duplicating, you can choose how to manage existing decks, like merging new cards or replacing them completely. This gives you control over your content updates.
  3. There are other improvements, like faster loading times for your workspace and better thumbnail generation for sharing on social media. These updates make the platform more user-friendly.

Winter is Here, And So is Gemini

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 39 implied HN points • 07 Dec 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Google's Gemini is finally here after a delayed launch, and it aims to outperform other models like GPT-4 in language tasks.
  2. Gemini has three versions: Ultra for complex tasks, Pro for various tasks, and Nano for efficient on-device use.
  3. The Gemini Ultra version scored impressively high in tests, even beating human experts at some language understanding tasks.

Everybody Likes RAG

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 39 implied HN points • 15 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. RAG stands for retrieval-augmented generation, which is becoming really popular in the tech world. People are eager to use it for their work.
  2. It offers many benefits like better access to current information and helps to verify sources. It's also efficient and cost-effective.
  3. Some see RAG as just a fancy version of prompt engineering, but others think it's essential for growing business applications.

Beyond RAG: Building a Knowledge Management System That Enhances Rather Than Replaces Thought

Nick Savage • 56 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Using digital tools for note-taking can be helpful, but you can lose some benefits of physical notes, like seeing related ideas together. It's important to find ways to keep those surprising connections.
  2. AI tools can automate parts of knowledge management, but they might not always help you understand the content better. Personal processing and making connections should still be done by humans.
  3. The goal of a good knowledge management system is to enhance your own insights and understanding. Tools should help organize, but the learning and connecting of ideas should still come from you.

Craft Successful Conversational User Interfaces: Align User Intent With Developed Intent

Cobus Greyling on LLMs, NLU, NLP, chatbots & voicebots • 19 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. It's important to match what users want to talk about with what the chatbot is set up to respond to. This makes conversations smoother and more enjoyable.
  2. Understanding different user intents helps in designing better chatbot interactions. Analyzing common questions can improve how the chatbot replies.
  3. Chatbots should be regularly updated based on user behavior and feedback. This helps keep the chatbot relevant and able to meet changing needs.

✅ AI adoption in public relations limited, so far

Wadds Inc. newsletter • 59 implied HN points • 18 May 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. AI is not being widely used in public relations yet, with many professionals unsure how to apply it. Only a few people in the industry are actively using AI tools.
  2. Most PR practitioners see the potential benefits of AI, like making work easier and more efficient. However, they have yet to change their workflows significantly because of it.
  3. There's a need for PR professionals to learn about AI and its impacts quickly. If they don't, they might fall behind as other industries integrate AI more effectively.

Join my new subscriber chat

Beyond the Screen • 6 implied HN points • 22 Oct 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. There's a new chat space just for subscribers, like a group chat where we can all talk and connect.
  2. To join the chat, you need to get the Substack app and turn on notifications so you don't miss anything.
  3. Once you have the app, you can easily find the chat and start chatting with me and other subscribers!

Internet writing was already obsolete

I have thoughts • 39 implied HN points • 19 Dec 22
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Good writing requires time, practice, and thought - there's no quick fix for improving writing skills.
  2. AI can excel at repetitive tasks but lacks originality, ideas, and opinions.
  3. There's a growing dissatisfaction with low-quality, SEO-focused internet writing, creating space for authentic, creative, and meaningful content to flourish.

Digital declutter: Organise for action

A Bit Gamey • 13 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🚌 Education Digital Tools
  1. Organizing your digital files by action rather than topic makes finding what you need easier. This approach lets you focus on what you need to do next.
  2. The PARA method is a simple way to categorize your information into four parts: Projects, Areas, Resources, and Archive. This helps you stay organized and ready to work on what's important now.
  3. To start using the PARA method, create folders for Archive and Projects first, then add Areas and Resources as needed. This keeps your digital space neat and lets you find things quickly.

☞ The Spreadsheet is a Simulation Machine

Cabinet of Wonders • 88 HN points • 11 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Spreadsheets are powerful simulation machines that allow users to build little worlds, play with scenarios, and predict the future.
  2. Spreadsheets are widely used in various fields such as small businesses, hedge funds, and biology laboratories due to their power, transparency, and ease of use.
  3. The act of creating and modifying a spreadsheet is akin to world-building, where users can manipulate data, test different parameters, and see how systems respond.

Bicycles for the Mind and Software-Augmented Mentats

Bzogramming • 30 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Our minds work like software made up of various pieces that interact with each other. The way we learn, remember, and think can change based on our experiences and the information we take in.
  2. Computers can help enhance our thinking, just like a bike helps us move better. But we still have a long way to go in fully using technology to improve how we think and learn.
  3. As we learn more about how the brain works and how to interact with computers, we may discover new ways to enhance our mental abilities. This could lead to different skills and talents that we haven't seen before.

Hallucinations Acche Hain

Sector 6 | The Newsletter of AIM • 19 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🕹 Technology Digital Tools
  1. Hallucinations in AI models can be a double-edged sword; they can lead to creativity but also cause issues with trust. It's important to think about how much we can rely on these chatbots.
  2. Some researchers believe that hallucinations help chatbots become better partners in creativity. They argue that these 'mistakes' can lead to unexpected and innovative ideas.
  3. Despite the risks, there's a fascination with the unpredictable nature of AI chatbots. Embracing their quirks could potentially unlock new ways of thinking and collaborating.