hackernews

1. Asynchrony is not concurrency Total comment counts : 35 Summary The article discusses the crucial distinction between asynchrony, concurrency, and parallelism in programming. Asynchrony allows tasks to run out of order correctly, while concurrency enables multiple tasks to progress simultaneously, and parallelism allows for actual simultaneous execution. The author highlights that misunderstanding these terms has led to inefficiencies and complexities in software development, such as duplication of effort in libraries and poor user experiences....

1. Hand: open-source Robot Hand Total comment counts : 22 Summary The project aims to create a cost-effective, dexterous robotic hand (Amazing Hand) for the Reachy2 robot, utilizing parallel mechanisms and controlled by SCS0009 servos. It includes detailed documentation, assembly guides, and control options (Python and Arduino). Custom 3D printed parts and calibration scripts are provided, with considerations for left and right hand configurations. Users need an external power supply for the servos....

1. Altermagnets: The first new type of magnet in nearly a century Total comment counts : 22 Summary Researchers have discovered a new type of magnet called “altermagnets,” marking the first novel magnetism in nearly a century. Inspired by M.C. Escher’s artwork, Libor Šmejkal predicted their existence in 2022. Unlike traditional ferromagnets and antiferromagnets, altermagnets could enable faster, more energy-efficient computing. They possess unique properties derived from the behavior of electron spins, challenging established magnetism models....

1. LLM Inevitabilism Total comment counts : 132 Summary The article discusses the concept of “inevitabilism,” a worldview suggesting that certain futures, like the rise of AI, are unavoidable and should be embraced. The author recalls advice from a debate champion friend about framing discussions on one’s own terms. Influential tech figures present AI’s advancement as inevitable, shifting the focus from “is this the future you want?” to “how will you adapt?...

1. Cognition (Devin AI) to Acquire Windsurf Total comment counts : 57 Summary Cognition has signed an agreement to acquire Windsurf, an innovative IDE, including its intellectual property, trademark, and talented team. The Windsurf team will continue operations as usual while Cognition integrates its capabilities into its products. This acquisition aims to accelerate Cognition’s efforts in software engineering, leveraging Windsurf’s strengths and the exceptional talent of its employees. Cognition commits to treating the new staff with respect and transparency....

1. How does a screen work? Total comment counts : 24 Summary Dan Hollick’s article explores the evolution of digital displays, highlighting their critical yet often overlooked role in computing history. From early electron guns to modern tiny electric crystals, the development of display technology has significantly enhanced user interaction with computers. The piece emphasizes how these advancements have paved the way for more sophisticated digital experiences. Top 1 Comment Summary The article critiques an assertion that modern displays refresh the entire screen simultaneously....

1. MacPaint Art from the Mid-80s Still Looks Great Today Total comment counts : 63 Summary The author enjoyed exploring a vast archive of over 18,000 MacPaint images and discovered intriguing early 80s digital art. They express a desire to track down the original artists and see their current work, noting the impressive creativity possible with limited technology of the time. The author also plans to investigate Amiga computer art from the same era....

1. OpenAI’s Windsurf deal is off, and Windsurf’s CEO is going to Google Total comment counts : 80 Summary Google has hired key researchers from the AI coding startup Windsurf, including CEO Varun Mohan and cofounder Douglas Chen, after a failed acquisition attempt by OpenAI. They will join Google DeepMind to work on agentic coding, particularly the Gemini project. Although Google does not own Windsurf, it has secured a non-exclusive license for some of its technology....

1. Bootstrapping a side project into a profitable seven-figure business Total comment counts : 73 Summary In just four years, ProjectionLab has achieved $1 million in annual recurring revenue, transforming from a personal finance tool into a resource for over 100,000 households. The founder, inspired by the financial independence movement, faced numerous challenges, including emotional highs and lows, before realizing persistence is key to success. Collaborating with growth partner Jon Kuipers and leveraging a community of engaged users has been crucial....