The hottest Innovation Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Technology Topics

8 Insights to Make Sense of OpenAI o3

The Algorithmic Bridge • 424 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Computing Innovation Data science
  1. OpenAI's new model, o3, has demonstrated impressive abilities in math, coding, and science, surpassing even specialists. This is a rare and significant leap in AI capability.
  2. There are many questions about the implications of o3, including its impact on jobs and AI accessibility. Understanding these questions is crucial for navigating the future of AI.
  3. The landscape of AI is shifting, with some competitors likely to catch up, while many will struggle. It's important to stay informed to see where things are headed.

The Bitter Religion: AI’s Holy War Over Scaling Laws

The Generalist • 920 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Computing Innovation Research Engineering
  1. The AI community is divided over whether achieving higher levels of computation will lead to better artificial intelligence or if there are limits to this approach. Some think more resources will keep helping AI grow, while others fear we might hit a ceiling.
  2. There’s a growing debate about the importance of scaling laws and whether they should continue to guide AI development. People are starting to question if sticking to these beliefs is the best path forward.
  3. If doubt begins to spread about scaling laws, it could impact investment and innovation in AI and related fields, causing changes in how companies approach building new technologies.

This New Internet Thing, Chapter 28

Life Since the Baby Boom • 691 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Internet Software Innovation Venture Capital Startups
  1. The author is publishing a new book and sharing it in chapters online, hoping readers will find it interesting enough to buy it later.
  2. The story features characters navigating the early internet business landscape, highlighting their challenges and opportunities.
  3. There's a focus on growth versus profitability, showing the tension between the desire to expand fast and the need to make money.

The "Brilliant" Idea that Saved The Economy and Killed The Future

OK Doomer • 111 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
💼 Business Economics Marketing Innovation Product Design Corporate strategy
  1. A group of light bulb companies created a plan to make bulbs that burnt out faster, so people would buy more. This was done under the false idea that they were improving efficiency.
  2. In the 1990s, a company launched a cheaper printer but actually just made minor changes instead of improving the product. They found clever ways to cut costs without giving customers a better deal.
  3. These examples show how businesses can prioritize profit over quality, tricking consumers into spending more money without a real benefit.

Prediction Technologies and Innovation

New Things Under the Sun • 160 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Innovation Artificial Intelligence Research Methods
  1. Prediction technologies help scientists make better guesses about what to explore next, like using AI to identify promising research areas. However, they can also lead people to focus too much on certain topics, missing out on other important areas.
  2. Research tools can change what scientists choose to study. For example, a tool might encourage research on proteins we already know about instead of new, less understood ones, which could slow down innovation.
  3. Different prediction technologies have different effects. Some can help researchers discover more unique solutions, while others may cause everyone to chase the same problems, limiting overall progress.
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Text to robot, olfactory, and geopolitical strategies

The Strategy Toolkit • 17 implied HN points • 03 Jun 25
🕹 Technology Robotics AI Innovation Design Engineering
  1. MIT scientists are creating robots using a new method called 'text to robot', where you can describe what you want the robot to do using simple language. For example, you can ask for a robot that can walk or make lemonade.
  2. This AI-driven design approach allows for innovative robot designs, like a special robotic hand that can operate medical tools effectively. It's exciting to think about how these robots could be used in hospitals.
  3. The work combines ideas from different fields, like biology and engineering, to inspire a new generation of robots that are practical and useful in everyday tasks.

The Birth of the Grid

Construction Physics • 19834 implied HN points • 25 May 23
🕹 Technology Energy Infrastructure Innovation History Utilities
  1. Electricity transitioned from a rare luxury to a critical aspect of modern life in a short period of time.
  2. The development of high-voltage transmission lines allowed for long-distance power transmission and the creation of interconnected power systems.
  3. The electric power industry grew by embracing scale, cooperation, and regulation to meet increasing demand and ensure reliability.

The ASOMOCO Top 10 (2024 Edition)

Altered States of Monetary Consciousness • 226 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
💼 Business Economics Finance Corporate Innovation Monetary Policy
  1. Corporations use simplified interfaces to interact with people, making it easier for us to deal with their complex structures. This can give them a more relatable personality, changing how we perceive them.
  2. Billionaires are often seen as uniquely gifted individuals, but this view overlooks the collaborative efforts of many people that contribute to their success. It's important to understand the collective work behind big achievements.
  3. Surveillance is becoming normalized as companies find new, clever ways to collect our data. They often spin this as a fun experience, making people look forward to sharing their information.

The Only Pitch Guyde You’ll Ever Need

Remarkable People • 699 implied HN points • 03 Jul 24
💼 Business Startups Investment Entrepreneurship Pitching Innovation
  1. Choose the right audience for your pitch. It's crucial to identify the right venture capital firms and specific people to contact for better chances of success.
  2. Get a warm introduction instead of cold emailing. Knowing someone who can introduce you increases the chances of getting a meeting.
  3. Practice your pitch and engage your audience. Start strong, tell a compelling story, and be confident in your delivery to leave a lasting impression.

Deepseek: From Hedge Fund to Frontier Model Maker

ChinaTalk • 400 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Innovation Research Startups Business Models
  1. High-Flyer, a hedge fund, is making big moves by venturing into AI research through a new company called DeepSeek. They want to create human-level AI instead of just copying existing models.
  2. Their success in the AI field comes from a unique hiring process that focuses on curious and passionate individuals rather than experience. This helps foster innovation within the company.
  3. Despite the high costs of running AI research, High-Flyer believes in funding their projects through a mix of their own resources and philanthropy. They prioritize long-term research over quick financial returns.

AI Bubble📉, Canva acquires Leonardo AI🎨, How to Write Cold Emails✉️

The VC Corner • 279 implied HN points • 11 Aug 24
💼 Business Venture Capital Startups Innovation Technology Trends Market Analysis
  1. There seems to be an AI bubble, which means the excitement and investment in AI may be too high right now. It's important to be cautious and not assume growth will continue at the same rate.
  2. Canva has bought Leonardo AI, showing how big companies are integrating AI tools into their platforms to enhance creativity and productivity. This could lead to more user-friendly design solutions.
  3. Writing effective cold emails is crucial for reaching out to new contacts and building relationships. It’s all about being clear, concise, and personal in your approach.

I'm back, 2025 is THE year.

Abe • 63 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Engineering Startups Innovation
  1. AI technology is advancing quickly and is making tasks easier and faster. Many people are starting to see big benefits from using AI tools in their work.
  2. The focus is shifting from just building products to understanding customer needs first, especially when using AI. It's important to sell the idea before jumping into development.
  3. There is a strong interest in using AI in practical ways to create new business solutions, rather than competing in the complex technical infrastructure of AI. Many are looking for innovative ways to apply AI to solve real-world problems.

The Battery Mineral Loop

Renewable Revolution • 439 implied HN points • 24 Jul 24
🌞 Climate & Environment Sustainability Energy Recycling Resource Management Innovation
  1. Battery minerals are becoming more efficient and less dependent on mining. Advances in recycling and chemistry can help meet demand without exhausting resources.
  2. In the coming decades, we might reach a point where we won't need to extract new battery minerals at all. We could rely on recycling old batteries instead.
  3. Countries have a big chance to shift from fossil fuel use to sustainable energy. This change can happen faster and cheaper than many think, especially if everyone works together.

Top Links 567 How Trump's moves against EV subsidies play into Tesla's hands. Why R&D spending does not raise productivity & Kazakhstan’s Golden Man.

Chartbook • 572 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economics Environment Innovation Business
  1. Trump's actions against electric vehicle (EV) subsidies might actually benefit Tesla. This could give Tesla an advantage in the market while affecting other EV makers.
  2. Research and Development (R&D) spending does not always lead to higher productivity. It's important to consider how the investment is managed and applied.
  3. Recent changes in tax credits for EVs are causing a drop in stock prices for renewable energy companies in the US. This suggests that policy changes can significantly impact the market.

Weekly Top Picks #94

The Algorithmic Bridge • 201 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Ethics Music
  1. OpenAI's new model is not just a chatbot; it's designed to help users think and set goals differently.
  2. AI progress is happening fast, but many people aren't aware of it, making it hard to get ready for big changes ahead.
  3. There are worries about AI tools and trust issues, so it's essential to think carefully about how we use and talk about AI.

Notes on Chapter 26

Life Since the Baby Boom • 691 implied HN points • 14 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Internet Computing Corporate Innovation Telecommunications
  1. Grant Avery returns to the story, showcasing his journey from working with Fuji Xerox to facing challenges with global citizenship and personal relationships.
  2. Len and Dan's TV segment highlights the mixed reality of media portrayals and the success they found in pushing Internet investments, despite public misconceptions.
  3. The chapter emphasizes how big companies underestimated the Internet, thinking it was only for niche groups, while it was actually on the brink of becoming mainstream.

You Must See How Far AI Video Has Come

The Algorithmic Bridge • 414 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Video Innovation Digital Media Privacy
  1. Google's AI video tool, Veo 2, is way ahead of others. It makes better videos than OpenAI's Sora Turbo, which is not as good and feels rushed.
  2. Deepfakes are changing how we see what's real. While they can be fun and creative, they also make it hard to trust what we see, blurring the line between reality and fantasy.
  3. As technology speeds up, we risk forgetting our traditions and customs. This fast pace can leave older generations feeling disconnected from younger ones, so we need to think about what we're losing.

🎭✨ Ben Affleck’s wise words on AI

Faster, Please! • 731 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Economics Innovation Automation Employment
  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 Sequence Radar #544: The Amazing DeepMind's AlphaEvolve

TheSequence • 63 implied HN points • 18 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Computing Research Innovation
  1. AlphaEvolve is a new AI model from DeepMind that helps discover new algorithms by combining language models with evolutionary techniques. This allows it to create and improve entire codebases instead of just single functions.
  2. One of its big achievements is finding a faster way to multiply certain types of matrices, which has been a problem for over 50 years. It shows how AI can not only generate code but also make important mathematical discoveries.
  3. AlphaEvolve is also useful in real-world applications, like optimizing Google's systems, proving it's not just good in theory but has practical benefits that improve efficiency and performance.

⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #29

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Organizational Design Innovation Workplace culture
  1. OpenAI has introduced a new AI called o3, which is really good at solving math and science problems. It even did better than its previous version in many tasks.
  2. Companies will start changing how they work by using AI more in their structure. This can help teams work better together and boost productivity in the workplace.
  3. AI is becoming an important part of how organizations will operate in the future. Successful companies will mix human skills with AI to improve their processes and create more value.

Introducing Chiplets

The Chip Letter • 6770 implied HN points • 11 Feb 24
🕹 Technology Hardware Semiconductors Innovation
  1. The newsletter is introducing 'Chiplets,' shorter and more varied posts for the readers.
  2. Readers have the option to opt-in to receive 'Chiplets' in their inbox to avoid filling it with too many emails.
  3. The 'Chiplets' will cover a mix of historical and current topics in a more informal and fun way, offering a new format for readers.

OpenAI Clocks $3.4B in Revenue 🤖, NATO Innovation Fund💸, Future of Work🌐

The VC Corner • 419 implied HN points • 21 Jul 24
💼 Business Startups Venture Capital Revenue growth Innovation
  1. OpenAI has generated a revenue of $3.4 billion, showing significant growth and impact in the tech industry.
  2. B2B influence marketing is becoming popular and is reported to give a high return on investment, with some companies seeing an average ROI of 6.5 times.
  3. The NATO Innovation Fund is a key player in supporting advancements and innovations in various sectors, emphasizing the importance of technology in global strategy.

AI models’ fusion future

Alex's Personal Blog • 32 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Data Startups
  1. AI companies are combining different types of models into one product. This means improvements in how they work together for tasks like reasoning and generating text.
  2. The market for secondary shares in startups is improving. Higher demand for good AI startups is helping to boost prices lately.
  3. There are ongoing debates in politics about technology and defense, particularly around companies like TikTok and relations with countries like China and India. This is creating a lot of uncertainty in the tech space.

"We Once Again Need to Raise More Capital than We Had Imagined": Watching OpenAI Say It Needs a New Structure

Brad DeLong's Grasping Reality • 207 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Startups Investment Innovation Economy
  1. OpenAI is looking for more money than they expected, which highlights how important funding is for their progress towards AGI. This means they need to attract investors willing to take risks.
  2. They plan to change their structure to a Public Benefit Corporation, balancing profit with broader social goals. This structure aims to raise capital more effectively while still focusing on their mission.
  3. OpenAI's current success is compared to how Netscape was for the internet. This suggests that OpenAI is leading a new wave of technology and investment in artificial intelligence.

BLT: Byte Latent Transformer

Gonzo ML • 315 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Data processing Software Development Innovation
  1. The Byte Latent Transformer (BLT) uses patches instead of tokens, allowing it to adapt based on the complexity of the input. This means it can process simpler inputs more efficiently and allocate more resources to complex ones.
  2. BLT can accurately encode text at a byte level, overcoming issues with traditional tokenization that often lead to mistakes in understanding languages and simple tasks like counting letters.
  3. BLT architecture has shown better performance than older models, handling tasks like translation and sequence manipulation more effectively. This advancement could improve the application of language models across different languages and reduce errors.

Introducing Ronin Ecosystem Grants!

Ronin’s Newsletter • 110 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🔮 Crypto Blockchain Grants Innovation Funding Development
  1. Ronin is launching Ecosystem Grants to support builders and innovative projects in the crypto space, offering $10 million in funding.
  2. There are different grant programs available, including one that provides up to $300K for development costs and another for $20K to help cover user onboarding expenses.
  3. To apply for a grant, teams can fill out an online application and will receive support in building their projects, with no deadlines for applications.

The Chronicles of GND, Part 2

filterwizard • 19 implied HN points • 25 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Engineering Electronics Design Innovation Systems
  1. In modern circuits, many designs operate on a single supply instead of a split supply. This means they only use a positive voltage and treat ground as the reference point, which changes how we think about electrical connections.
  2. It's important to create separate nets for ground and a '0V' reference in circuit layouts. Mixing currents from both can lead to problems, even if they seem similar in potential.
  3. Using a low-impedance ground plane isn’t always the best solution. In sensitive systems, small voltage drops and current flow can significantly affect performance, so careful design is essential.

⤴⤵ Up Wing/Down Wing #27

Faster, Please! • 456 implied HN points • 07 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Nuclear Energy Innovation R&D
  1. AI is changing research and development by making it faster and cheaper. It helps in designing products quickly and may even improve their performance significantly.
  2. Neuralink is working on a new study that allows people to control robotic arms using only their thoughts. This could really help those who have disabilities.
  3. A startup called Kairos Power is building safer nuclear reactors that use molten salt instead of water. This new technology aims to provide clean energy by 2030.

Icesteading: Executive Summary

Transhuman Axiology • 178 implied HN points • 11 Sep 24
🔬 Science Engineering Environment Research Innovation Technology
  1. Icesteading is the idea of creating colonies on artificially insulated icebergs in warm ocean waters. These 'ice-islands' could serve as places for living, working, or even launching space missions.
  2. The insulation around these icebergs can make them last for decades or even centuries before melting. This involves using materials like air or foam to keep the ice from warming up too fast.
  3. Building on these ice-islands avoids the legal and political issues on land. They offer more freedom and the chance to create underground spaces, making them a unique alternative to traditional islands.

The Grand Stand

Computer Ads from the Past • 512 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Gaming Devices History Advertising Innovation
  1. The Grand Stand is a joystick floor stand designed to improve comfort and control while gaming. It helps reduce wrist and elbow fatigue.
  2. It's made of solid wood with a nice finish and was available in two models with different prices. The stand elevates the joystick for better access.
  3. Computer gaming magazines in the early 80s featured this product, noting its benefits for improved gameplay and reduced discomfort.

The Agrifoodtech Effect 🍽️

The VC Corner • 519 implied HN points • 05 Jul 24
🍲 Food & Drink Sustainability Innovation Investment
  1. The food system is facing big challenges, like harming the environment and contributing to climate change. We need to rethink how we produce and consume food to protect our planet.
  2. Agri-Foodtech is about using new technology to improve the entire food industry. This includes everything from apps to healthier food options that can change how we eat.
  3. Investments in foodtech are growing rapidly, showing its importance. However, there's a need for more focus on advanced technologies, not just quick delivery services, to drive future innovations.

Open-Source AI, visually explained

Year 2049 • 4 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Open Source Software Innovation Definitions
  1. Open-source AI means anyone can access and modify the software. This makes it easier for innovation and collaboration among developers.
  2. Using open-source AI has both benefits and drawbacks. It promotes transparency but can also lead to misuse of the technology.
  3. There are specific criteria that define what makes an AI truly open-source, ensuring it meets certain standards of accessibility and control.

Lessons from Cybersyn

Magis • 227 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
💼 Business Startups Data Economics Innovation Market Trends
  1. Starting a data company can be really challenging because it takes a lot of time and money to create useful products. It’s hard to find customers who are ready to pay for insights quickly.
  2. Big companies have valuable data but making deals can be tough. You often have to convince them to sell data at a good price while also showing them the benefits of monetizing it.
  3. The shift in the market towards valuing profits over growth made it harder to raise funds for data startups. Sometimes, it might be smarter to shut down a project to save capital instead of pushing forward with uncertain outcomes.

Mission Control Center - brains of the Space System. How does it work?

Space Ambition • 319 implied HN points • 26 Jul 24
🕹 Technology Space Tech Engineering Innovation Data processing Artificial Intelligence
  1. The Mission Control Center (MCC) is crucial for managing spacecraft. It collects data, controls systems, and predicts emergencies.
  2. Different specialists work in the MCC, each focusing on specific parts of the spacecraft. The center’s size varies based on the mission's complexity, from small setups to large control rooms.
  3. New technology, including AI, is changing how MCCs operate. AI helps with monitoring systems and predicting spacecraft movement, making the process more efficient.

TBM 334: The Capacity Allocation Illusion

The Beautiful Mess • 1031 implied HN points • 19 Jan 25
💼 Business Management Operations Finance Strategy Innovation
  1. Capacity in software development isn't just about how many hours people work. It's more complicated and depends on past investments and the overall work environment.
  2. Oversimplifying capacity can lead to poor decisions. You need to consider many factors, like team dynamics and the quality of work, rather than just time spent on tasks.
  3. When asked about spending, it's better to focus on how investments improve future capacity instead of just breaking down hours. Understanding the bigger picture is key.

In The Context Of Long Context

Adjacent Possible • 553 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🕹 Technology AI Machine Learning Software Development Innovation Digital Media
  1. A new AI feature can turn a whole book into a fun audio conversation, making learning more engaging. This feature has caught a lot of attention online and even received media coverage.
  2. The ability of the AI to handle large amounts of text—up to 1.5 million words—makes it much more useful for users, allowing for better, more detailed interactions.
  3. Long context models can help organizations make better decisions by recalling important documents and past experiences, adding a new kind of intelligence to team discussions.