I used to be really excited for what the next smart phone would offer. Or the next tablet. Or hell, the next smart watch.
Not any more. And of course this happens when all technology (or gadgets) become old-hat.
Thing is there IS new stuff that might be exciting. VR. MR. AR. They haven't hit their stride yet. I SHOULD feel excited to see what happens when they do.
But I don't.
Why/? I honestly think is the software. The monetisation. The -companies- themselves.
The companies selling the new gadgets make me not care.
No matter how fancy the tech, it won't stop it just straight-up boring me. Even when Apple or even Meta show off something new with a VR headset, I never do more than glance at it for a moment, before browsing away to a different article or video.
Basically, what I'm saying is: capitalism killed my interest in gadgets and technology, almost entirely.
I'm more excited by weird $40 open source bits of hardware, despite many using decades old tech.
So that's what I think I'll focus on. The weird shit. The cool shit. The bizarre re-uses of 8-bit Z80 or 6502 processors. Of cheap e-Ink displays on 2010-vintage microcontrollers.
Surely you know you can watch and download youtube videos with yt-dlp already, but did you know it works with many more websites and services that host media content?
it’s wild and slightly alarming to me how much thinking and criticism from the late 70s and early 80s is extremely alive and on point today
like, the heated debates in late 70s (and even late 60s/early 70s) architectural/planning circles are THE SAME DEBATES were are having now about new networks
i need a new repair and restoration project like i need a third butthole.
but i couldn’t say no to this poor old IBM Selectric rotting in a government surplus warehouse for $5. once the pride and joy of some government office, it is completely gummed with sawdust and old lubricant.
besides, there’s something so wonderful about the premium burgundy/wine ones. i can’t wait to get the grime off and see the original colour. this will become a piece of functional artmaking equipment when it is done.