Search the archive

GOOGLE IS WORKING ON AI THAT CAN HEAR SIGNS OF SICKNESS

Google is using AI models trained on 300 million audio samples to detect early signs of diseases like tuberculosis.

MASTERCARD LAUNCHES CRYPTO DEBIT CARD IN EUROPE: SPEND FROM SELF-CUSTODIAL WALLETS

Mastercard has introduced a crypto Euro debit card in partnership with Mercuryo. The card allows users to spend crypto from their self-custodial wallets at over 100M merchants. This initiative integrates crypto into daily transactions, improving user control over their funds while advancing Mastercard's commitment to embedding digital assets in the mainstream economy.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE $MATIC TO $POL UPGRADE

The MATIC token is rebranding to POL to align with the Polygon branding. With the AggLayer interoperability solution being the primary point of focus for the Polygon team, POL will be seen as the “AggLayer token” and will allow for staking on multiple chains. MATIC will be automatically migrated to POL on the Polygon PoS chain, but everyone else must use a migration contract.

POLYMARKET BINGO CARDS

Polymarket has launched a new betting format called Polymarket Bingo, where users bet on a bingo card filled with various phrases expected to be mentioned in debates rather than simple yes/no bets on single words. This format is more challenging but offers higher returns because players fill the bingo card by matching multiple phrases, with trading for these bets starting at around 20 cents.

INFINITYVM: ENSHRINING OFFCHAIN COMPUTE

InfinityVM introduces a new execution architecture that natively integrates offchain compute. It aims to overcome the limits of traditional blockchain models by allowing apps to execute offchain while ensuring only honest results are included onchain. It also enables ZK proofs without constraints, allowing results to be utilized instantly. Thanks to InfinityVM, blockchains can become mechanisms for trustlessly verifying centralized compute, combining the performance of optimized servers with blockchain guarantees.

GLUE AND COPROCESSOR ARCHITECTURES

Modern resource-heavy computation is split into two parts: complex but light “business logic” and intensive but structured “expensive work.” This pattern, called the glue and coprocessor architecture, is increasingly prevalent in Ethereum, AI, and programmable cryptography. Glue prioritizes generalizability and flexibility, while coprocessors focus on efficiency for specific tasks. By optimizing for different parts of computation separately, performance, security, and developer-friendliness are improved.

THE VALUE DEFI BRINGS TO ETHEREUM IN 4 CHARTS

DEX trades comprised 44% of gas spent in the past month. DeFi has contributed to 49% of ETH burned since the merge. Around 76,000 addresses interact with DeFi applications daily on Ethereum, and over 57% ($46.2B) of TVL.

TELEGRAM'S HISTORY: FROM ITS EARLY DAYS TO TONCOIN AND CONTROVERSIES

From its start focusing on privacy and innovative features like encryption and expiring messages, Telegram has grown significantly while continually clashing with governments over privacy issues. Despite setbacks like the halted TON blockchain project, Telegram continues to be a major messaging platform that is pushing boundaries by leveraging crypto while maintaining user privacy and content security.

A THOUGHT EXPERIMENT ON CENTRALIZATION AND FORKING AND BTC PURITY

With over $100B+ of centralized stablecoins on chains like Ethereum and Solana, Circle and Tether have outsized influence over future chain forks. If the government decides to fork Ethereum, it could force Tether and Circle to comply. This is the primary reason a chain like Bitcoin, with little centralized control and a decentralized store-of-value asset, remains unique: you can't be the best payment rails and a pure SOV asset.

THE POTENTIAL FOR CHINESE CRYPTO APPS TO BECOME CRYPTO APPS

Chinese consumer apps that use fiat for engagement are innovative and fun.

CRYPTO IN LATAM

In Argentina, people often rely on crypto for everyday transactions, showing the practicality of crypto in unstable economies.

WHY ETH IS UNDERPERFORMING

ETH is facing significant market challenges, with a notable price drop despite multiple positive developments like ETF approvals.

L2S ARE NOT PARASITIC TO ETHEREUM

L2s have significantly contributed to the Ethereum ecosystem by supporting hundreds of dapps and consolidating ETH's position as a leading decentralized currency.

EIGEN SEASON 2 STAKEDROP DETAILS RELEASED

EigenLayer's second airdrop details have been released, with 3.5% of the supply going to ETH restakers, 0.18% to EIGEN stakers, and 0.5% to node operators.

DRIBBBLE INTRODUCES PROJECT REQUESTS, PROPOSALS, AND TRANSACTIONS

Dribbble's latest release introduces features that enable designers to transact directly with clients through the platform, including project requests, proposals, and payments. The initiative aligns with Dribbble's mission to help designers earn a living and has increased lead flow by 242% year-over-year. Designers benefit from peace of mind, more leads, and low transaction fees, while clients enjoy secure payments and project conversion support.

APPLE APPEARS TO MISLEAD UK REGULATOR OVER DECEPTIVE DEFAULT BROWSER USER INTERFACE

Apple implemented a deceptive dark pattern in iOS to make it harder for users to change their default browser from Safari. This issue was initially reported by Ars Technica and later fixed by Apple, though the specific iOS version containing the fix was not disclosed. Despite solid evidence from multiple sources, Apple recently denied the existence of the issue in a formal response to the UK's Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), leading to accusations that the company was potentially misleading regulators.

GOOGLE EXPANDS AI-POWERED VIRTUAL TRY-ON TOOL TO INCLUDE DRESSES

Google has expanded its generative AI-powered virtual try-on tool to include dresses, allowing users to try on thousands of dresses from brands like Boden and Staud virtually. Dresses, a highly searched category, pose a challenge for traditional diffusion techniques due to their intricate details and varied lengths. To overcome this, Google developed a new training strategy and built the VTO-UNet Diffusion Transformer (VTO-UDiT), which maintains body details while accurately displaying dresses. This advanced tool aims to improve the virtual shopping experience.

8 FIGMA TIPS FOR UI3

Figma's new UI3 introduces tools like select matching layers, bulk-edit text, suggested auto-layout for beginners, and follow prototype for tracking bugs. Additional updates include the "hide hints on click" feature for usability tests and the Annotate tool in Dev-mode, which allows users to add notes and pin properties.

TOOLS AND TECHNIQUES TO CREATE ACCESSIBLE ACCORDION COMPONENTS

Accessible accordion components enhance web usability by reducing clutter and improving navigation. Key practices include implementing effective keyboard navigation, semantic HTML, and ARIA roles. Proper implementation supports screen readers, minimizes cognitive load, and ensures all users can access and interact with content efficiently.

COMPLEX WEB DESIGN IS AN OVERLOOKED OPPORTUNITY THAT NEEDS DESIGNERS

Much like Healthcare UX, complex web design offers career stability by requiring specialized knowledge that is in demand. Designers should prioritize understanding content and outcomes over visual elements. Tools like ChatGPT can assist with terminology and data. Clear communication and outcome-focused thinking are essential for success in complex fields.

MOTION.ED

A collection and explanation of animation guidelines used on the web and apps today. Many of these have roots in the golden age of hand-drawn cartoons – but have been adapted for the digital era.

APP STORE DESIGN SCREENSHOTS

Scrnshts.club is a curated selection of the best app store designs, showcasing the most visually appealing and effective listings.

CLONE ANY WEBSITE TO YOUR PAGE BUILDER

ClonewebX allows users to clone, customize, and transfer websites between page builders like Webflow and Elementor without coding, streamlining design and development tasks.

THIS BLUE DOT IS TAKING OVER NEBRASKA. IT MIGHT BE THE BEST POLITICAL LOGO WE'VE SEEN THIS ELECTION

A blue dot has become a political symbol representing Nebraska's potential influence in the state's unique electoral vote system, which apportions votes by congressional district. Designed by Jason Brown, the blue dot signs, which bypass HOA restrictions on campaign signs, have gained popularity in Omaha, resonating with Democratic voters in a predominantly Republican state.

HOOK'S BRAND EVOLUTION: A MASTERCLASS IN MOTION DESIGN

Hook Creative Studio uses motion design to enhance its brand identity, treating it as a dynamic, evolving entity that reflects its creativity and innovation. Its approach demonstrates the power of motion design in storytelling, emphasizing fluidity, engagement, and a compelling narrative to create a memorable brand experience.

DECENTRALIZING UX WITH ML & GENAI

The decentralized UX framework leverages machine learning and generative AI to automate manual steps in UX workflows, reducing costs and providing personalized user experiences that enhance business KPIs. By integrating AI for real-time UX research and personalization, companies can improve user satisfaction and potentially increase revenue by up to 40%.

COMMON PROBLEMS CREATIVES ARE FACING THIS AUTUMN, AND HOW TO SOLVE THEM

Build routines to avoid autumn slumps, develop a unique brand, diversify income and platforms, and keep momentum with early planning and networking to stay ahead.

FLUX.1 IS A MIND-BLOWING OPEN-WEIGHTS AI IMAGE GENERATOR WITH 12B PARAMETERS

Setting a high standard with 12 billion parameters, Flux.1 outperforms models like Midjourney V6 and Dall-E 3 in detail, prompt adherence, and diversity.

HAIDER ACKERMANN IS THE NEW CREATIVE DIRECTOR OF TOM FORD

French-Colombian designer Haider Ackermann will become Tom Ford's creative director, debuting in A/W 2025, succeeding Peter Hawkings.

✅ How to automate monthly reconciliation and revenue recognition

to boost your chances of wowing investors with flawless financials.

Check out the blog to avoid costly bookkeeping mistakes →

VERTICAL INTEGRATORS: PART II

The current economic landscape is witnessing a shift towards vertical integration, where companies are integrating multiple cutting-edge technologies and developing significant in-house capabilities to create new and better products. This trend is driven by the need to rebuild systems from scratch, as existing ones are becoming increasingly complex and fragile, and are unable to respond to changing conditions quickly enough. The emergence of new technological innovations and the decline of incumbent firms and industries are indicative of a potential new techno-economic paradigm, which historically favors the rise of vertical integrators.

THE EXTINCTION OF VENTURE CAPITAL?

The venture capital industry is facing a potential crisis as a significant number of firms may cease to exist due to consolidation and a focus on large, established firms. This trend is driven by the incentives of large allocators and LPs, leading to a homogeneous landscape that stifles innovation and diversity. To prevent the industry from becoming overly uniform and dominated by mega-funds, stakeholders must adopt a Darwinian approach by questioning current beliefs and practices to foster greater diversification and cognitive diversity.

HOW TO MOVE FROM FOUNDER-LED TO AE-LED SALES

Hiring the first account executives (AEs) marks a pivotal milestone for early-stage companies, as it allows founders to delegate sales responsibilities and focus on other business aspects. However, this transition can be challenging because new AEs may lack the founder's passion and product knowledge. To ensure success, companies should hire AEs only after achieving product-market fit, having a clear sales playbook, and possessing a solid lead pipeline, while prioritizing candidates with intellectual agility and passion over extensive sales experience.

TONE AND WORDS: USE ACCURATE LANGUAGE

Effective communication requires using language that accurately reflects intent, meaning, certainty, and power dynamics. Overconfidence or excessive caveats can hinder clarity and trust, so it is crucial to align your words with the level of evidence and conviction you possess. By doing so, you encourage open dialogue, foster trust, and facilitate productive decision-making and feedback.

HOW TO BUILD MORE PIPELINE IN 2024

Revenue leaders are focusing on four main strategies to build more pipeline for the rest of the year: increasing investment in both large and intimate events, orchestrating account-based plays across teams, enhancing creativity in outbound efforts, and revisiting pricing and packaging strategies for expansion opportunities. These approaches involve leveraging virtual and in-person events for high ROI, aligning cross-functional teams for targeted account engagement, employing creative prospecting techniques, and adjusting pricing models to facilitate easier entry and future growth.

TIPS FOR NEGOTIATING NON-PRICING TERMS

Startup founders should consider more than just the initial cost when negotiating contracts. CFOs with experience can use non-pricing terms like payment schedules, service level agreements (SLAs), contract duration, customization options, support, and conflict resolution to optimize deals. By paying attention to these details, founders can improve cash flow, maximize the value of their products, and reduce risks. This approach can help them secure more favorable agreements in today's competitive business environment.

POLAR

An open-source Lemon Squeezy alternative.

VIDECO

Make every video a conversation with personalized AI.

THEYSAID

The world's first conversational AI survey.

THE HIDDEN METRIC THAT'S GETTING MORE IMPORTANT

Section is on track to achieve over $7 million in revenue this year with a streamlined workforce of 24 employees. It improved its revenue per employee from $82,000 to nearly $300,000 over four years. This increase in efficiency was achieved through strategic layoffs, product portfolio transformation, and increased reliance on contractors. As capital efficiency becomes more critical, especially with the rise of AI, understanding and improving revenue per employee is vital for leaders across industries to enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness.

AGAINST YOUR OWN SELF-INTEREST

This author reflects on the importance of acting against one's own self-interest at times in order to serve a higher cause or build long-term value in relationships. In an age of grifters and those optimizing purely for personal gain, it's crucial to be self-reflective, consider other perspectives, and make choices with an eye towards consequences beyond just rational self-interest. Ultimately, the author aims to embody these principles personally and gravitate towards others who share a willingness to look beyond narrow self-interest.

THE BEST FOUNDERS

Venture capitalists often use the phrase "The Best Founders" to describe entrepreneurs they believe will be successful in fundraising, but this term is subjective and doesn't necessarily predict long-term success. The true measure of a great founder is their ability to persevere through challenges and build an iconic company over many years, regardless of their background or initial fundraising success.

HOW OFTEN DO VALUATIONS INCREASE IN STARTUP ROUNDS?

In recent years, the default expectation of startup valuations increasing with each funding round has been challenged.

THE CHALLENGE OF THE AI DEMO

AI demos can be challenging due to the non-deterministic nature of AI systems, which can lead to hiccups and disruptions during presentations.

HIRING A STRONG NEW VP? LET THEM PICK THEIR RIGHT-HAND PERSON

Great leaders recognize the importance of allowing their trusted executives to bring in a key person they have worked with before and rely on to execute their vision.

Get the report for free

PLANNED PARENTHOOD CONFIRMS CYBER-ATTACK AS RANSOMHUB THREATENS TO LEAK DATA

Planned Parenthood in Montana experienced a cyber-attack on August 28. It is working with federal law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate and restore systems. Ransomware group RansomHub claims to have stolen 93GB of data and has threatened to leak it unless paid.