1. Exploiting the IKKO Activebuds “AI powered” earbuds (2024)
Total comment counts : 31
Summary
The author details their experience with a pair of earbuds that run Android and feature ChatGPT. Despite the appealing packaging, they note poor audio quality, which can be improved with custom EQ settings. The device has limited app options and lacks a browser for downloading additional software. However, it surprisingly maintains ADB accessibility, allowing sideloading of apps. Investigation reveals direct communication with OpenAI and the presence of an OpenAI key on the device, raising security concerns. The device includes various modes, such as “Angry Dan,” which may contain explicit content.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses the limitations imposed on AI models, specifically prohibiting responses longer than 150 words and avoiding sensitive topics like Chinese politics. It reflects on the ethical concerns of using extreme consequences, such as stating that “people will die,” to guide the behavior of AI models. This raises questions about the implications of training models under such constraints, especially in scenarios where real-life consequences are at stake.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article highlights concerns about a product that was shipped with a hardcoded OpenAI key and ADB access. While the vendor’s quick response to rotate the key and implement a proxy for IMEI checks is somewhat reassuring, the lack of proper sandboxing and secure credential storage raises significant security risks.
2. Fakespot shuts down today after 9 years of detecting fake product reviews
Total comment counts : 37
Summary
Fakespot, a prominent fake review detection tool that aided millions of online shoppers since 2016, officially shut down on July 1, 2025. Acquired by Mozilla in 2023, it offered insights into unreliable reviews but faced sustainability challenges, leading to its discontinuation. Fakespot’s technology highlighted that nearly half of Amazon’s best-selling products had dubious reviews. Despite its popularity, Mozilla redirected resources to focus on core Firefox features and AI innovations. In response to the closure, a new tool called TrueStar is being developed to continue Fakespot’s legacy in trustworthy review analysis.
Top 1 Comment Summary
Fakespot is struggling to keep up with increasingly clever fake review strategies, including stores offering discounts for positive reviews and companies incentivizing customers to buy new models in exchange for refunds. An individual recounted purchasing multiple Dyson clone vacuums through such schemes, feeling guilty yet satisfied with their collection. These deceptive practices present challenges for Fakespot, which must adapt to address the evolving landscape of online reviews.
Top 2 Comment Summary
Mozilla struggled to establish a sustainable business model for Fakespot, despite its popularity. The article questions the rationale behind the acquisition, noting a lack of visible integration with Firefox and uncertainty about monetization strategies, such as user data, commissions, or a subscription service. The writer expresses confusion over Mozilla’s decisions regarding this venture, highlighting a disconnect between the company’s intentions and user experience.
3. Don’t use “click here” as link text (2001)
Total comment counts : 78
Summary
When encouraging user actions, use concise and meaningful link text. Avoid phrases that explain how to download software, like “click here.” Instead, use direct calls like “Get Amaya!” without including verb phrases. For more information, link to details about Amaya while highlighting its features. The W3C QA Tips offer informal guidance for web developers, authored by the Quality Assurance Interest Group. These tips are not official W3C specifications. Visit the Tips Index to learn more or contribute your insights. All interactions with the site comply with privacy statements.
Top 1 Comment Summary
Screen readers for blind users provide a linear view of web pages and allow access to elements like headers and links independently. However, if all links are labeled “click here,” it limits non-linear navigation, making it difficult for these users to understand the context and purpose of each link.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The author argues against the notion that links should avoid using verbs. They provide examples where clear, action-oriented links like “click here” or “download Amaya” effectively direct users to download pages. In contrast, vague phrases like “Get Amaya!” fail to clarify links’ purposes, suggesting references instead of downloads. The author emphasizes that action-oriented links enhance user understanding, particularly in contexts like downloading software, where clarity is crucial.
4. Show HN: CSS generator for a high-def glass effect
Total comment counts : 30
Summary
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Top 1 Comment Summary
The article discusses a limitation of the backdrop filter effect in CSS, which only blurs pixels directly behind a surface. This can be problematic when the backdrop moves, but it’s less of an issue if the backdrop is static. The author references a detailed explanation and relevant discussions for further reading.
Top 2 Comment Summary
A JavaScript version that simulates refracting elements on a webpage has been created. You can view it at the following link: real-glass.vercel.app.
5. Gene therapy restored hearing in deaf patients
Total comment counts : 18
Summary
A study by Karolinska Institutet reveals that gene therapy can effectively improve hearing in individuals with congenital deafness or severe hearing impairment. Conducted on ten patients aged 1 to 24 with OTOF gene mutations in China, the therapy involved a single injection using a synthetic adeno-associated virus. Results showed significant hearing improvement across participants, particularly in younger patients, with one child almost fully regaining hearing. The treatment was well-tolerated, prompting researchers to explore therapies for other genes linked to hearing loss. The study highlights the potential for transformative life quality changes in patients.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article expresses optimism about recent advancements in addressing deafness, suggesting these developments might extend to other types of hearing loss, including those caused by ototoxic medications, ear infections, and general sensorineural issues.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The article discusses advancements in gene therapy for treating certain types of blindness. Researchers have made significant progress in developing therapies that target genetic mutations causing vision impairment, showing promising results in clinical trials. The goal is to restore vision for those affected by inherited retinal diseases. This therapy represents a potential breakthrough in ophthalmology and may transform the lives of patients suffering from these conditions.
6. Couchers is officially out of beta
Total comment counts : 24
Summary
Couchers has officially launched its version 1 (v1), moving out of Beta after five years of development. The new strategy focuses on fostering a safe and active community, featuring a redesigned landing page and improved core functionalities. Key updates include an anonymized map for user safety, enhanced reference processes, and revamped search capabilities. This launch enables Couchers to concentrate on community growth and attracting the right members. Gratitude is expressed to the team members who contributed to the development and design of the platform.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The author enjoyed hosting couchsurfers but stopped due to receiving detailed feedback on trivial aspects of their home, like towel designs. They express frustration over guests commenting on personal items rather than treating it as a casual arrangement. Ultimately, they find hosting no longer enjoyable.
Top 2 Comment Summary
Couchers co-founder announced a launch reflecting significant improvements to the platform’s usability, alongside a new branding strategy and landing page. The team is seeking senior React Native and React/Python developers to aid in mobile app development and enhance frontend/backend functionality. All efforts are open source under the MIT license. The founder invites questions from the community.
7. ASCIIMoon: The moon’s phase live in ASCII art
Total comment counts : 38
Summary
The article presents an ASCII art representation of the Moon’s phases, allowing users to view and cycle through them day by day. This creative format offers a unique visual experience of the lunar cycle, showcasing the Moon’s changing appearance in a simple yet artistic manner.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The author appreciates the ASCII art but criticizes its representation of the moon phase, stating it should depict a perfectly half-occluded shape. They also reference a similar issue in GTA San Andreas on PS2, which they excuse due to the system’s limitations. Overall, they see potential in the site’s design but suggest that improving the shadow effects could significantly enhance its quality.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The author expresses a preference for ASCII art to maintain standard text sizes, such as 132x132, arguing that deviations lead to loss of quality. They believe that consistently changing character colors detracts from the aesthetic, valuing traditional terminal colors instead. The author humorously considers themselves a purist regarding these artistic choices.
8. Code-GUI bidirectional editing via LSP
Total comment counts : 26
Summary
The author created a proof-of-concept for real-time bidirectional editing between a code editor and a GUI using an LSP server. Inspired by Kevin Lynagh’s work on codeCAD, the author aimed to merge a cozy development environment with code-based CAD systems, enabling source code and graphical UI to update simultaneously. Despite recognizing the challenges in implementing this system, the demonstration sparked excitement for potential developments. While the project is currently a prototype, it could inspire further creative uses of LSP servers in CAD. The author noted existing systems that lack full integration while expressing anticipation for future advancements in codeCAD.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article expresses enthusiasm for live coding projects, highlighting a personal project that enables real-time updates in Love2D without saving. The project incorporates interactivity through a VS Code extension with features like number sliders and color pickers. Additionally, the author developed an experiment allowing “drag and drop” functionality to manipulate positions within an editor via keypress. The author emphasizes the exciting possibilities within this realm of coding and invites others to explore the projects through provided links.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The author reflects on Borland Delphi’s effective integration of Pascal with its GUI toolkit in the 1990s, allowing seamless transitions between GUI design and code. In contrast, languages like C++ and WxPython presented complex, rigid structures that hindered flexibility, leading the author to prefer Pascal. They express optimism that language models (LLMs) can enhance productivity by bridging gaps between less compatible language and GUI combinations.
9. Websites hosting major US climate reports taken down
Total comment counts : 33
Summary
Websites hosting U.S. national climate assessments have disappeared, complicating access for governments and the public to essential climate information. Scientists warn that the loss of these reports, crucial for planning against climate impacts, endangers communities, especially marginalized groups. The White House stated the information would be moved to NASA but provided no further details. Experts, including former officials, criticized this action as a severe setback to scientific transparency and public safety, likening it to navigating without crucial foresight. The situation has raised concerns regarding the future of climate science dissemination in the U.S.
Top 1 Comment Summary
The article highlights numerous concerns regarding the current administration, including censorship, reduced research and social program funding, aggressive deportation practices, economic disruption, and widespread allegations of incompetence, dishonesty, and corruption. The author expresses disillusionment and questions the benefits of these actions.
Top 2 Comment Summary
The author expresses deep sadness over the increasing frequency of devastating events, emphasizing their collective negative impact. They lament that the average person remains unaware of these issues, leaving a sense of hopelessness about finding solutions.
10. Private sector lost 33k jobs, badly missing expectations of 100k increase
Total comment counts : 23
Summary
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Top 1 Comment Summary
The current methods of measuring economic health are inadequate, as they do not reflect true job quality or income stability. For example, if someone loses a high-paying job but finds minimum wage work, the unemployment rate remains unchanged. Additionally, the metric overlooks individuals not actively seeking employment. “Full employment” is meaningless without assessing whether people can maintain a stable lifestyle, as economic vitality relies on consumers being able to afford nonessentials.
Top 2 Comment Summary
In June, goods-producing companies added 32,000 jobs, while the services sector lost 66,000 jobs, primarily in professional/business and education/health services. Job losses were most pronounced in the West North Central Midwest, South Atlantic, and Mountain states. Smaller mid-size and large companies were net hirers, but firms with 1 to 50 and 250 to 499 employees laid off workers. Year-over-year pay growth for job-stayers remained at 4.4%, while job-changers saw a slight decrease to 6.8%. Finance recorded the highest pay growth at 5.2%, and information services had the lowest at 4.1%.