technology

AI Is Technology, Not a Product

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John Gruber argues that AI should be seen as a pervasive technology rather than a standalone product, much like wireless networking. He critiques the notion that Apple must launch a singular “killer AI product,” emphasizing that AI will instead be integrated across all devices and experiences, with the iPhone continuing to be central for user interaction rather than being replaced by smaller gadgets or always-on AI agents.

https://daringfireball.net/2026/05/ai_is_technology_not_a_product

How Apple Solved the RAM Crisis Before It Even Arrived

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Apple anticipated the global RAM shortage by designing its M-series chips with a unified memory architecture and system-on-chip (SoC) integration, enabling more efficient use of limited RAM through aggressive memory compression and fast memory swapping with SSDs. This approach allows devices like the $599 MacBook Neo to run smoothly with just 8GB of RAM, offering a competitive advantage as rising RAM costs force other manufacturers to increase prices or limit options.

https://www.macworld.com/article/3121948/how-apple-solved-the-ram-crisis-before-it-even-arrived.html

The Slow Death of the Power User

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The article “The Slow Death of the Power User” argues that deliberate actions by major tech companies have eroded users' technical literacy and autonomy, turning them into passive consumers reliant on managed platforms. This decline harms users' ability to audit, adapt, and innovate while consolidating control and surveillance in monopolistic ecosystems, with no clear industry or regulatory solution in sight—leaving individual effort to preserve technical competence as the only recourse.

https://fireborn.mataroa.blog/blog/the-slow-death-of-the-power-user/

More on Whether Useful Quantum Computing Is “imminent”

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Scott Aaronson's blog discusses the evolving outlook on quantum computing, noting its potential imminence after years of skepticism. He attended the Q2B conference, where he observed significant advancements in quantum algorithms and hardware. Although he remains cautious about exaggerations in the field, particularly regarding claims made by certain companies like IonQ, he acknowledges impressive experimental milestones achieved by players like Google and Quantinuum. Aaronson emphasizes the importance of transitioning to post-quantum cryptography as the field progresses, while reiterating that current practical applications for quantum computing largely remain unchanged from historical predictions. He concludes with a warning about the potential for sensitive estimations regarding the capabilities of quantum systems to not be publicly shared due to security concerns.

https://scottaaronson.blog/?p=9425

Neutral Atom Quantum Computing: 2026’s Big Leap

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Next-level quantum computers using neutral atoms as qubits aim for error correction by 2026, led by companies like Microsoft, Atom Computing, and QuEra. Industry views on progress differ, with challenges in speed and commercial viability. Neutral atoms allow for better error correction and scalability. Upcoming quantum machines are expected to have significant advancements but achieving truly transformative technology remains a long-term goal.

https://spectrum.ieee.org/neutral-atom-quantum-computing

Century-Scale Storage

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Century-Scale Storage Overview

Topic: Storing digital data for 100 years.

Key Points:
– Historical Context: IBM's RAMAC, developed in the 1950s, was the first hard drive with instant data retrieval but became obsolete in six years.
– Current Digital Storage Concerns: Most digital records, artifacts, and art are stored electronically, facing short-term design issues. There’s a demand for long-term preservation strategies.
– Storage Methods Discussed:
– Hard Drives: Mechanical parts risk failure; long-term solutions need meticulous maintenance and regular upgrades to ensure data remains accessible.
– Solid State Drives (SSDs): Fast and no moving parts but have a limited lifespan and degrade over time without power.
– Cloud Storage: Convenient and accessible but relies on external companies and infrastructure that may not last a century.
– Recommendations: Store data in multiple formats across various locations, emphasizing redundancy. Use non-proprietary formats for longevity.
– Challenges: Maintaining the necessary technology and access methods for digital data preservation over time poses significant obstacles, requiring institutional commitment and resources.

Conclusion: Effective century-scale storage requires addressing mechanical reliability, technological advancements, and a cultural commitment to long-term preservation.

https://lil.law.harvard.edu/century-scale-storage/

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