Read Before Monday

Another week, another mix between projects and innovations that blend nostalgia and cutting edge creativity! From the historical significance of lab mice in genetic research to the surprising relevance of environmental bacteria in antibiotic resistance, these topics reveal the importance of revisiting and rethinking past technologies. Then, whether it’s documenting the fading era of pay phones, examining groundbreaking VFX tools from Jurassic Park, or crafting a game in just 13KB, each story underscores how constraints can drive innovation and preserve cultural heritage. At the end, it reminds us that innovation often builds on the past, bridging old and new in unexpected ways. See you next week! :)

It's still August! A lot of you are on vacation, enjoying the sun, the beach and I'm here posting... But to those hanging around, this weeks edition is about how amazing it is to see passion and dedication can do and drive us, whether it’s restoring the first Air Force One, embracing the balance between liquid and illiquid career paths, or even using AI to revolutionise drug discovery. So, whether you’re fixing a relationship, navigating a career change, or working on a project, success often comes from blending tradition with innovation - right?. Then, just like in gaming, where isometric projection holds nostalgic value, sometimes the old ways, mixed with new techniques, can lead to the best outcomes.

This week #RBM got a new timetable, it's only launched at 9pm UK time, so it you wanted it earlier, just let me know :) Heading to today's newsletter edition; we cover a range of tech advancements and historical insights - we have it all folks! From HowStuffWorks, we learn about the evolution of Olympic timing technology, highlighting innovations like high-speed cameras and RFID transponders for accuracy. In contrast, an analysis of Intel's struggles reveals challenges in diversifying beyond x86 processors amidst rising AI competition. Then we'll focus on exploring the pixel art on CRT displays, which showcases the artistry involved in overcoming technological limitations. In the same topic, we have Disney's filmmaking process that blends creativity and technology in animation. Meanwhile, Ford's first engine, examined by Lagado Academy, underscores its historical significance and preservation challenges. See you next week!

This past week has been though for the UK, but we'll endure and make it better, without the division. So obviously the first topic of this newsletter is about the recent riots, which highlight the impact of social media algorithms on polarisation and far-right violence everywhere, contrasting with past unified responses to tragedies like the Dunblane massacre. In software development, the debates is focused on the trade-offs between clean code and performance, emphasising the need for informed decisions. In the nostalgic department, did you know that IBM's 1980s Audible Random Timer reflects historical engineering practices? Meanwhile, GenAI is revolutionising the fashion industry by optimising design and sustainability. These developments underscore the evolving role of technology across diverse sectors, impacting society, industrial, and creative landscapes. So, not everything is bad, lets make the best out of it! I know August is quite slow for many, but you'll keep having my newsletters throughout the month :)

Welcome to another #RBM edition! This week lets explore the challenges in publishing null research results, how Amazon's Echo device strategy struggles and is rubbish, and the intense semiconductor competition between Intel, Samsung, and TSMC. Finally we have an innovative "Model of a Mind" which offers new perspectives on digital cognition. Plus, don't miss updates on retro gaming - whhhhhattt? - and the latest in GenAI, including OpenAI's SearchGPT and Meta's open-source AI approach.

Welcome back to another - vacation - edition of #ReadBeforeMonday :) This week is a short one, but with heavy focus in science, as I feel we're losing touch with it and start to believe in weird stuff - yes, looking at the latest RNC. So, lets understand the need for synthetic blood, in order to overcome donor shortages and limited shelf life, exploring biological and chemical approaches. Then maybe we should never update anything, which humorously critiques constant software updates, advocating for a more stable development approach and maybe less BSOD's. It's book review time! As we'll get into Dominique Routhier’s examination of the Situationist International’s fight against capitalist commodification and the need for a revived avant-garde. Lastly, Apple’s new policy allowing retro game emulators on the App Store marks a significant shift, enabling nostalgic gaming but facing challenges with ROM legality. See you next week!