The hottest Software Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Technology Topics

Python 3.13, what didn't make the headlines

Bite code! • 1957 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Programming Software Development Tools System
  1. Python 3.13 introduces improvements in debugging tools like PDB, making it easier to work with errors and set breakpoints. This is a big win for developers who rely on debugging in their workflow.
  2. The shutil module has seen many bug fixes and enhancements, which means working with files and directories will be more reliable. Developers can finally use it without constant worries about it failing.
  3. There are small but useful updates for concurrency in Python, such as changes to asyncio and task management. These little updates add up to make handling multiple tasks easier and more efficient.

Mocking OpenAI - Unit testing in the age of LLMs (Part One)

Laszlo’s Newsletter • 21 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Programming Development Testing
  1. Unit tests are still important even with LLMs. They help ensure your code behaves as expected, even when using unpredictable AI tools.
  2. Mocking is needed to effectively test code that relies on LLMs. Instead of calling the actual AI, you create a 'fake' version that simulates its behavior.
  3. Using libraries like 'respx' can simplify mocking in your tests, and it's essential to handle things like retry logic carefully to keep tests fast.

The New Age of Invention

davidj.substack • 47 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Software AI Engineering Development Innovation Tools
  1. Building software is now much easier and cheaper because of AI tools. This means more people can try out their ideas even if they aren't experts.
  2. People who can read and write code can now create custom software for their specific needs. This opens up possibilities for personal projects that were once too complex or costly.
  3. The trend of making software easier to build may lead to a huge increase in the number of new inventions and tools. More ease means more experimentation and creativity happening at a faster pace.

An Interview With Or Weis

ciamweekly • 62 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Software Cybersecurity Entrepreneurship AI Developer Tools
  1. CIAM helps businesses balance security and user experience. If security is too tight, users get frustrated, while loose security can lead to risks.
  2. Without CIAM, companies waste time creating custom access control systems. CIAM makes it easier for developers to manage permissions, so they can focus on product development.
  3. The future of CIAM involves managing machine identities as much as human ones. As automation grows, businesses will need new methods to handle permissions for both types of users.
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Where Was RDNA4 at AMD’s Keynote?

More Than Moore • 326 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Hardware Software Gaming Electronics Artificial Intelligence
  1. AMD didn't announce RDNA4 at the CES keynote because they felt a short presentation wouldn't do it justice. They want to provide detailed information rather than leave people with questions.
  2. AMD plans to share more about RDNA4 through partners at CES, but a dedicated event will follow for an in-depth reveal. They are close to launch but wanted to wait for the right time.
  3. The naming scheme for new graphics cards will be clearer to help users make better comparisons. AMD aims to improve performance in key gaming areas and ensure good value for consumers.

One Hand On The Yoke

Software Design: Tidy First? • 950 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Software Design Culture Processes Engineering
  1. Flying an airplane usually works better with one hand on the yoke instead of two. This way, it's easier to keep a smooth flight and not overcorrect.
  2. When you let go a bit and trust a self-organizing team, you can achieve better results, just like flying with less tension.
  3. Sometimes trying to control things too tightly can make them worse, like struggling with a suitcase that wobbles. Often, a lighter touch or changing the tool helps.

Last week at The Lunduke Journal (Oct 20 - Nov 2, 2024)

The Lunduke Journal of Technology • 1148 implied HN points • 03 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Software Open Source Internet Security Programming
  1. There has been a lot of news recently about Linux and its relationship with Russia, especially regarding programming bans. This issue seems to be getting more complicated in the coming weeks.
  2. The Internet Archive is in the spotlight with some strange developments that are capturing attention. It's raising questions about how information is preserved online.
  3. RISC OS has made progress by adding modern features like WiFi and a web browser. It's nice to see tech advancements, even amid all the chaos in the software world.

I made a simple tool to save you from online distractions

12challenges • 257 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software Digital Tools Internet Usage Productivity Activism
  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.

How I got 27 hours in a week by installing one tool

High Growth Engineer • 1052 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Productivity Tools Software AI Workflow Engineering
  1. Using tools like Raycast can save a lot of time by centralizing different functions on your computer. It allows you to quickly access apps and features, making your workflow smoother.
  2. Having features like an instant AI chat is really useful for quickly finding answers to questions without interrupting your flow. You can get help right when you need it, without the hassle of opening new tabs.
  3. Text expanders are great for saving time on repetitive typing. They let you create shortcuts for common phrases, making it faster to communicate and reducing effort in your daily tasks.

Notes on Chapter 30

Life Since the Baby Boom • 461 implied HN points • 19 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Internet IPO Software Business Innovation
  1. Netscape going public marked a big moment, but it wasn't an instant fortune for everyone involved. There were rules that kept employees from cashing out right away.
  2. When IPOs happen, share prices can soar initially due to limited availability. But once the lockup ends, prices often drop sharply, leading to disappointment.
  3. Not everyone realized the Internet's impact back then, and many were oblivious to its potential. While some like Bill Gates recognized it as a threat, others lagged behind in understanding.

Last week at The Lunduke Journal (Nov 24 - Nov 30, 2024)

The Lunduke Journal of Technology • 574 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Software Programming Open Source Tech Policy Hardware
  1. The C++ Standards Group made headlines by banning a contributor just for using the word 'Question' in their work. It shows how strict and odd some technical communities can be.
  2. The Linux Code of Conduct Board also banned a developer for not apologizing enough, highlighting tensions in developer communities around behavior expectations.
  3. Microsoft has faced accusations from Google about using 'dark patterns' in their Edge browser, pointing to ongoing issues with user experience and ethical design in tech.

Native Speakers

Artificial Ignorance • 92 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Automation Interfaces Development
  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.

Arguing with Software

David Friedman’s Substack • 251 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software Automation E-commerce Customer Service Digital Platforms
  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.

Diffusion large language model, GPT‑4.5, 3.7 Sonnet, Wan2.1 open-source video model, Phi-4-multimodal, Proxy Lite, Omni-capable text and voice engine, Poe Apps and App Creator, FastRTC,Scribe and more

AI Brews • 5 implied HN points • 28 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Computing Digital
  1. GPT-4.5 has been released, improving pattern recognition and creative insights. This is a big step for AI technology and helps make better connections.
  2. New models like Claude 3.7 Sonnet and Mercury are making advancements in coding and video processing. These models are faster and more efficient than previous ones.
  3. Companies are launching tools that help with various tasks, like AI task management and seamless communication. These tools aim to reduce stress and improve productivity.

8 guaranteed ways to annoy your senior engineer

The Caring Techie Newsletter • 21 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Engineering Software Product Management Team Dynamics Workplace culture
  1. Always provide details when asking engineers to fix something. It saves everyone time if you describe what’s wrong and what you've tried.
  2. Avoid labeling everything as urgent. This makes it hard for engineers to prioritize and can lead to burnout.
  3. Be clear and prepared for meetings. Vague invites waste time and make it hard for engineers to focus on their work.

Agents, Agents, Agents

Teaching computers how to talk • 178 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Innovation Business User Experience
  1. In 2025, AI agents are expected to become very popular, but there's skepticism about their real capabilities. Many companies are making bold claims, but it's important to see if the technology can truly deliver.
  2. The term 'AI agent' is being used a lot nowadays, but many so-called agents are just chatbots with limited functions. True AI agents should work independently and be able to interact meaningfully with their environment.
  3. Understanding user needs is crucial when integrating AI solutions. Companies should focus on solving real problems instead of simply adopting trendy technologies without considering their usefulness.

Sustainable Software, can you do something?

Cloud native with Saiyam • 39 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Software AI Sustainability Infrastructure
  1. Cloud Native Sustainability Week is a global event focusing on making technology practices more sustainable. It encourages everyone to join discussions and learn about sustainable software integration.
  2. You can contribute to sustainable software efforts by participating in working groups and exploring specific technologies like Kubernetes. There are many projects people can join to help the cause.
  3. Upcoming events like KubeCon NA provide opportunities to learn about the latest tools in cloud-native landscapes. Attending talks and meetups can deepen your understanding and involvement in sustainability efforts.

Expansion hack: Power Stone, Power Stone 2 (Dreamcast)

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Gaming Software Hardware Development Debugging
  1. Power Stone for Dreamcast has a hidden debug menu for testing different features like sound and animations.
  2. Power Stone 2 also includes a debug menu that offers similar testing capabilities and extra features to explore character moves.
  3. Patches are available to access these hidden menus, enhancing the gaming experience for players who want to dive deeper into the games.

Real-time AI Voice Agents and Determinism Through Tool-Calling

Impertinent • 79 implied HN points • 06 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Software Research Development Innovation
  1. Generative AI often faces uncertainty, but there may be ways to achieve reliable reasoning. It's exciting to learn that we can improve the predictability of AI outcomes.
  2. A big project in AI development can lead to many challenges and uncharted areas. Even if some efforts end in failure, it's important to find and build on the valuable lessons learned.
  3. Real-time AI voice agents have the potential to change how we interact with technology. This could make using AI smarter and more effective in our daily lives.

The Sequence Opinion #547: Best Practices I am Learning While Coding with AI Agents

TheSequence • 63 implied HN points • 22 May 25
🕹 Technology Software AI Engineering Coding Testing
  1. Software engineering is changing rapidly with the use of AI agents. Teams are now using AI to help speed up their work and take on new roles.
  2. AI agents are moving beyond just helping with code completion. They now can generate entire code bases, run tests, and manage pull requests automatically.
  3. Developers are shifting their focus from hands-on coding to more strategic tasks like code review and creating documentation, as AI handles more of the coding work.

The Sequence Radar #549: Google, Microsoft and Anthropic Monster AI Week

TheSequence • 49 implied HN points • 25 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Research Development Conferences
  1. Google is making big strides towards creating Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) with new models like Gemini 2.5 and features such as a universal AI assistant called Project Astra.
  2. Microsoft is focusing on 'agentic AI', which means they're developing AI that can work independently to complete complex tasks, supported by their new Azure AI Foundry.
  3. Anthropic introduced the Claude 4 series, which improves reasoning abilities in AI models and emphasizes safety and ethical behavior, helping developers build smarter AI systems.

Live Session: How Modern CPUs Execute Your Code: A Deep Dive into Performance

Confessions of a Code Addict • 168 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Computing Hardware Software Engineering Education
  1. Understanding how modern CPUs work can help you fix performance problems in your code. Learning about how the processor executes code is key to improving your programs.
  2. Important features like cache hierarchies and branch prediction can greatly affect how fast your code runs. Knowing about these can help you write better and more efficient code.
  3. The live session will offer practical tips and real-world examples to apply what you've learned. It's a chance to ask questions and see how to tackle performance issues directly.

The next big thing in 2025 will be...

next big thing • 243 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Robotics Software Data Consumer Tech
  1. In 2025, we will see the rise of AI agents that can help automate tasks more efficiently and handle complex activities, making our lives easier.
  2. There will be a big shift in technology with AI becoming more integrated into our daily routines, making things like healthcare and language translation more personalized and seamless.
  3. Consumer healthcare will improve a lot as people gain more control over their health data, leading to a better experience and more trust in healthcare systems.

The Sequence Research #548: Why I Can't Stop Thinking About AlphaEvolve

TheSequence • 56 implied HN points • 23 May 25
🕹 Technology AI Software Research Innovation Algorithms
  1. AlphaEvolve is a new tool that uses AI to create and improve algorithms, which could be a big step toward achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI).
  2. It combines evolutionary methods with large language models, allowing it to discover and refine algorithms more efficiently.
  3. AlphaEvolve not only makes significant math discoveries but also helps improve Google's technology operations.

How Adaptive AI Microcontainers Outmaneuver Modern Cybersecurity Threats in AI Workloads

Phoenix Substack • 42 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Cybersecurity AI Microservices Software Enterprise
  1. AI workloads are crucial for businesses but can attract cyber threats. These threats target predictable systems and can steal data or disrupt operations.
  2. Static security methods, like firewalls, are not enough to protect AI workloads. New challenges like lateral movement and data theft highlight the need for better security.
  3. Adaptive AI Microcontainers create secure environments by changing and healing themselves automatically. This makes it hard for hackers to predict or exploit the system.

The Sequence Engineering #551: Magentic-UI Push The Boundaries of Agentic User Experience

TheSequence • 35 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🕹 Technology AI UX Software Automation Web Development
  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.

Disillusioning the Magic of the fork System Call

Confessions of a Code Addict • 649 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Programming Software Operating Systems Computer Science
  1. The fork system call creates a new process that is a copy of the parent process, but each can follow a different path after the call. This is why a program can behave differently depending on which process it is in.
  2. When the fork call is made, the operating system needs to return distinct values to both the parent and child processes. The kernel sets the return value for the child process to 0, while the parent gets the child’s process ID.
  3. System calls are handled in the kernel, which means understanding their low-level operations helps us see how programming languages like C manage processes, revealing the complexity hidden behind simple function calls.

The Software Rebel: How Innovaccer Defied Silicon Valley's Anti-Services Doctrine and Won

Day Zero: Always Learning • 426 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
💼 Business Startups Software Entrepreneurship Technology Investment
  1. Businesses need to combine services with software to succeed. This mix can help them understand their customers better and create real value.
  2. Learning and adapting quickly is key to success. Companies should capture knowledge from each project to improve their services over time.
  3. The future of enterprise software lies in using AI and human expertise together. This way, businesses can create smarter solutions that really solve problems.

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.

Deconstructing the Transformers ReAct JSON System Prompt

Encyclopedia Autonomica • 39 implied HN points • 13 Oct 24
🕹 Technology AI Software Machine Learning Data Analysis Development
  1. Transformers use a specific structure for commands called JSON. This makes it easier to describe actions clearly and effectively.
  2. The system prompt includes rules that the agent must follow, like focusing on one action at a time and using the correct values for inputs.
  3. The design also emphasizes iterative reasoning, where the agent can build on previous observations to make better decisions in tasks.

Bad Software Advice: Three Interesting Links #6

Bad Software Advice • 164 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software AI Management Remote work Documentation
  1. Documentation is important, but sometimes people struggle to keep it updated. A funny story shared highlights a case of trying to restore missing documents in a company.
  2. Remote work has its advantages, but it doesn't fit everyone's situation. Personal circumstances can greatly affect how well someone can work from home, and it's important to consider different perspectives on this topic.
  3. Incompetent management can sometimes still keep a company afloat if conditions are stable. However, if situations change, it can threaten the organization's survival.

Now synthesize your FIR filters using high-school algebra

filterwizard • 19 implied HN points • 27 Sep 24
🕹 Technology Engineering Software Mathematics Signal Processing Computer Science
  1. You can create FIR filters by breaking them down into smaller parts using simple math. This makes it easier to understand how each piece works together.
  2. The sharp notches or deep points in a filter's response happen because of certain factors in the polynomial. Each notch can be traced back to specific frequencies based on these factors.
  3. To improve a filter's performance, you can add more mathematical pieces to make the response smoother in certain areas. This way, you can customize how the filter behaves at different frequencies.

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.

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.

Mach 1 with Python!

Bite code! • 733 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Programming IOT Hardware Software Engineering
  1. You can measure distance using sonar technology, which was once considered advanced but is now easily available and affordable for projects like Raspberry Pi.
  2. Creating fun experiences, like detecting when people pass through a giant Mario pipe and playing a sound, requires careful planning and some troubleshooting.
  3. Working with hardware can be tricky, as it often involves dealing with unexpected issues and requires patience, but it can lead to creative and playful outcomes.

Refactoring: Narrow ↔ Widen Parameter

Software Design: Tidy First? • 530 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🕹 Technology Software Design Refactoring Development Programming
  1. Narrowing and widening parameters are important techniques in refactoring code. They help make the code more flexible and easier to understand.
  2. Refactoring can initially seem tricky, but it can also be enjoyable and rewarding. It's a good practice to keep improving your code.
  3. Getting feedback on your refactoring efforts is valuable. It helps you see what works and what can be improved.

5 Cybersecurity Predictions for 2024

Frankly Speaking • 203 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🕹 Technology Cybersecurity AI Software Engineering Data
  1. In 2024, cybersecurity companies will focus more on creating platforms instead of using many separate tools. This means they can work faster and solve problems better.
  2. Cybersecurity is moving towards building its own solutions rather than just buying products. This change is necessary to keep up with the evolving threats.
  3. The use of AI in cybersecurity will become more effective. Companies will learn how to use AI to make their security processes better and faster.