Internet

Internet Computer will be a key alternative to AWS-like services — Dfinity exec

July 18, 2023 Coin Telegraph

The Dfinity chief said that Internet Computer would prove to be a boon for the blockchain industry, which is currently dependent on centralized systems like Amazon Web Services.

The Web3 ecosystem is built on the principles of decentralization; however, most aspects of the ecosystem are still relatively centralized. Be it metaverse servers or nonfungible tokens (NFTs), several blockchain ecosystems are entirely based on centralized servers from the likes of Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Thus, these ecosystems face several vulnerabilities that come with centralization. However, Dominic Williams, founder of Dfinity, believes the Internet Computer blockchain can change that for good.

In a conversation with Cointelegraph journalist Zhiyuan Sun during the Ethereum Community Conference (EthCC), Williams explained that with the use of smart contracts, Internet Computer would remove any human backdoors making the next generation of the protocol truly autonomous and decentralized.

Internet Computer is a set of protocols that allow independent data centers worldwide to band together and offer a decentralized alternative to the current centralized internet cloud providers.

Williams noted that Internet Computer will be key to replacing centralized servers such as AWS. He said:

“We want people to replace that centralized systems with canister smart contracts on the internet computer. It’s like an evolution of Dao technology, so the whole thing is secured, secure, decentralized and autonomous. We want to see this centralized stuff Amazon Web Services replaced by the Internet Computer.”

Williams went on to discuss the possibilities that Internet Computer can open for the blockchain world. He noted that small countries and projects wouldn’t have to build wallets and could simply integrate Internet Computer with the Bitcoin network to start transactions. He explained that its “smart contracts can create Bitcoin addresses, receive and send Bitcoin, while the complexities of UTXOs [unspent transaction outputs] is hidden.”

While discussing the aspects of internet computers and how it would differ from the traditional architecture, William noted that smart contracts have the potential to “eat software,” suggesting that the computer smart contracts have the potential to replace things like web servers, Kubernetes, databases, and many other traditional IT stack today.

DFINITY Foundation is a not-for-profit science and technology organization and a major contributor to the Internet Computer blockchain. The foundation recently announced the $5 million decentralized artificial intelligence (DeAI) grant to support projects leveraging AI on ICP.

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Macro Guru Raoul Pal Predicts ‘Exponential Move’ for Crypto Over the Long Term, Says Current Selloff Is Noise

June 16, 2023 The Daily Hodl

History of computing: From Abacus to quantum computers

June 13, 2023 Coin Telegraph

abacus

Journey through time and witness the remarkable advancements that have shaped the computing world we know today.

From the earliest mechanical devices to the most advanced quantum computers of the present, the history of computing is a fascinating trip spanning thousands of years.

Let’s explore the significant turning points in computing history, starting with the abacus and progressing through quantum computers.

Abacus (3,000 BCE)

The abacus, which dates back to 3,000 BCE, is frequently cited as the earliest known computer device. To accomplish fundamental arithmetic computations, a set of rods or wires with beads were pushed back and forth.

Mechanical calculators (17th to 19th centuries)

Several mechanical calculators, including Blaise Pascal’s Pascaline and Gottfried Leibniz’s stepped reckoner, were developed during this time. These devices used gears, wheels and other mechanical components to carry out calculations.

Analytical Engine (1837)

Charles Babbage invented the analytical engine, a mechanical computer that could execute a variety of calculations, in 1837. It was never constructed during Babbage’s lifetime, but because it used punched cards for input and output, it is regarded as a forerunner to current computers.

Tabulating Machines (late 19th to early 20th centuries)

Herman Hollerith invented tabulating machines in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which processed and analyzed data using punched cards. These devices were crucial to the advancement of modern computers and were employed for tasks like tabulating census data.

Vacuum Tube Computers (1930s–1940s)

Vacuum tube computers, including the Atanasoff-Berry Computer (ABC) and the Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer (ENIAC), signaled the transition from mechanical to electronic computing in the 1930s and 40s. Vacuum tubes made it possible for faster calculations and more advanced functionality.

Transistors (1947)

John Bardeen, Walter Brattain and William Shockley’s 1947 creation of the transistor at Bell Laboratories revolutionized computers. Smaller, quicker computers were created as a result of the replacement of cumbersome vacuum tubes by smaller, more dependable electrical components known as transistors.

Integrated Circuits (1958)

In 1958, Jack Kilby and Robert Noyce independently developed the integrated circuit, which allowed the integration of numerous transistors and other electrical components onto a single chip. This innovation cleared the path for the creation of miniaturized electronics and microprocessors.

Personal Computers (1970s–1980s)

The Altair 8800 and later computers like the Apple II and IBM PC helped popularize personal computing in the 1970s and 80s. These cheaper and more user-friendly computers made computing more accessible to both individuals and companies.

Internet and World Wide Web (1990s)

With the advent of the internet and the growth of the World Wide Web, computing became a vast worldwide network of interconnected devices. Tim Berners-Lee created the HTTP, HTML and URL protocols to make simple information sharing and browsing possible.

Mobile and cloud computing (2000s)

The emergence of smartphones and tablets, as well as advancements in wireless technology, helped facilitate the widespread use of mobile computing. Furthermore, the idea of cloud computing arose, offering scalable and on-demand access to computing resources via the internet.

Quantum computers (present)

Quantum computing is a new technology that uses the laws of quantum mechanics to carry out calculations. Quantum computers use qubits, which can exist in superposition and entangled states, as opposed to classical computers, which use binary bits (0s and 1s). Though they are still in the early phases of research, viable quantum computers have the ability to handle difficult problems more quickly than classical computers.

The future of computing

The developments achieved from the abacus to quantum computers have created an exhilarating and constantly changing landscape for the field of computing. Here are some significant developments and opportunities for computers in the future:

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)

Artificial intelligence and machine learning will continue to be key factors in the development of computing. These technologies, which give computers the capacity to learn, reason and make judgements, have made advancements in fields such as natural language processing (NLP), computer vision and robotics possible.

AI-driven systems will advance in sophistication, having an impact on a number of sectors, including healthcare, banking, transportation and customer service.

Internet of Things (IoT)

The linking of numerous devices and items that enables communication and data sharing is referred to as the Internet of Things. The IoT will develop more as processing power keeps rising and becomes more energy-efficient.

There will be an abundance of connected devices, enabling smart homes, smart cities and productive industrial operations. The IoT will produce enormous amounts of data, necessitating sophisticated computing techniques for analysis and decision-making.

Edge computing

Rather than depending only on centralized cloud infrastructure, edge computing processes data closer to the source. Edge computing will be more significant as IoT devices and real-time applications expand.

Edge computing offers quicker and more effective processing by lowering latency and enhancing data privacy, which benefits industries including autonomous vehicles, healthcare monitoring and smart grids.

Quantum internet and quantum communication

The creation of a quantum internet is being investigated in addition to quantum computing. The principles of quantum physics are used in quantum communication to secure and send data.

A global network of safe communication and data transfer could be made possible via quantum networks, which could offer improved security, lightning-fast and impenetrable encryption, and quantum teleportation.

Neuromorphic computing

The goal of neuromorphic computing, which draws inspiration from the structure and function of the human brain, is to create computer systems that resemble neural networks.

For tasks like pattern recognition, data processing and cognitive computing, these systems might provide greater efficiency and performance. Neuromorphic computing may facilitate the development of artificial intelligence and brain-machine interactions.

Ethical and responsible computing

As computers develop, ethical issues take on more significance. It is necessary to address concerns such as privacy, prejudice in AI algorithms, cybersecurity and the effect of automation on employment and society. In order to ensure that technology is used for the benefit of humanity, responsible practices, laws and frameworks will be necessary for the future of computing.

The potential for innovation and revolution in a variety of fields is enormous for the future of computing. AI, quantum computing, IoT, edge computing, quantum communication, neuromorphic computing and ethical concerns will shape the future of computing, enabling us to solve difficult problems and open up new opportunities for advancement.

Google Trends Data Shows Bitcoin Search Interest Surged This Week Amid 10-Month Price High

April 12, 2023 Bitcoin.com

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March 21, 2023 Bitcoin.com

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FTX’s Bankman-Fried could ‘conceivably’ get bail revoked, says judge

February 17, 2023 Coin Telegraph

Bail

A federal judge said there was "probable cause" to believe that SBF engaged in activities that could land him in jail.

Former FTX CEO Sam Bankman-Fried could “conceivably” have his bail revoked after a federal judge said there was “probable cause” to believe he may have engaged in attempted witness tampering.

In the Feb. 16 hearing on Bankman-Fried’s bail conditions, Judge Lewis Kaplan said there was “probable cause to believe that he [Bankman-Fried] has committed or attempted to commit a federal felony while on release, namely witness tampering” according to multiple reports.

Kaplan suggested that this could “conceivably” see the FTX founder sent back to jail until his trial date in October.

Kaplan noted however that the Feb. 16 hearing was not a bail revocation hearing, but added that it “could get there, conceivably.”

"Why am I being asked to turn him loose in this garden of electronic devices?” Kaplan reportedly said.

Law Professor Richard Painter echoed the sentiment in a Feb. 17 tweet, suggesting that witness tampering might not be a good idea given his current circumstances:

“Hey Crypto Bro: Witness tampering while out on bail is a great way to go right back to jail.”

On Feb. 15, prosecutors asked Judge Kaplan to further restrict Bankman-Fried’s device usage to a single monitored computer and cellphone in a letter.

Prosecutors had pointed to Bankman-Fried’s recent device usage as cause for concern, seeking to further restrict and monitor his usage “with limited exceptions.”

During the hearing, Judge Kaplan suggested that it was naive to believe that these restrictions would stop him from using the internet, given that Bankman-Fried is living with his two parents, who both have laptops and cellphones.

Prosecutor Nicholas Roos seemingly agreed, suggesting there may not be a “great solution,” which prompted Kaplan to imply that revoking Bankman-Fried’s bail could eliminate these risks, noting:

“There is a solution, but it’s not one anybody has proposed yet.”

Bankman-Fried’s lawyers however argued that they need him to be able to work on his defense, claiming: “We cannot go through these extensive financial records without him.”

The former FTX CEO has been prohibited from using certain messaging apps as of Feb. 9 after he was found to have contacted potential witnesses. He was also temporarily banned from using a VPN after prosecutors accused him of using it on two occasions on Jan. 29 and Feb. 12.

The VPN ban was not extended in the Feb. 16 hearing.

Many from the crypto community have expressed disbelief that Bankman-Fried is yet to have his bail revoked under the circumstances.

Yes, why? What exactly does @SBF_FTX have on the prosecution that they’re not demanding his bail be immediately revoked? Or do they think he can take down @binance if he flips? Is he waving that at them? Because none of this makes sense otherwise. https://t.co/l66Qls0d46
— Alex Berenson (@AlexBerenson) February 16, 2023

Federal judge hints at denying Sam Bankman-Fried any internet access as condition of bail: Report

February 16, 2023 Coin Telegraph

Coin Telegraph

The judge reportedly did not expand SBF’s bail conditions to include restrictions on the internet or VPNs, but asked his lawyers to pay for a consultant to explore the matter.

Judge Lewis Kaplan reportedly targeted Sam Bankman-Fried’s internet usage in a hearing aimed at reviewing the former FTX chief executive officer use of a virtual private network, or VPN.

According to a Feb. 16 tweet from NPR correspondent David Gura, Judge Kaplan may have suggested that Bankman-Fried be denied access to any electronic device and the internet as a condition of his bail. Though SBF’s lawyers reportedly said there was no television in Joe Bankman’s and Barbara Fried’s California home — where the former FTX CEO has largely been confined since his arraignment in the United States in December — the judge countered that a "garden of electronic devices" was available with access to the internet.

Bankman-Fried appeared in court for the first time in days to address the legal implications of him using a VPN on Jan. 29 and Feb. 12. SBF’s lawyers claimed he had been watching football on the days in question, but prosecutors said using a VPN raised “several potential concerns.”

Prosecutors suggested restricting Bankman-Fried’s VPN usage as a condition of his bail, as they have with certain messaging apps and contact with current or former FTX and Alameda Research employees. Judge Kaplan reportedly did not expand SBF’s bail conditions to include restrictions on the internet or VPNs in the hearing, but asked his legal team to provide a consultant willing to explain the implications of the technology in court.

Bankman-Fried’s criminal trial is scheduled to begin in October, when he will face eight criminal counts including wire fraud and violations of campaign finance law. The debtors in FTX’s bankruptcy case have also issued a subpoena to the former CEO, ordering him to present certain documents and information related to his time at FTX to the court.

Worldwide Webb founder explains the role interoperability will play in Web3 ecosystems

February 10, 2023 Coin Telegraph

Blockchain Game

NFT Steez chats with Worldwide Webb founder Thomas Webb to discuss the future impact of interoperability in Web3 and the Metaverse.

In the latest episode of NFT Steez, Thomas Webb, the founder of the interoperable avatar game Worldwide Webb, discusses the integration of interoperability in Web3 and the Metaverse.

By definition, interoperability is a feature of Web3 whereby a product or system can work seamlessly across platforms with other products or services. Webb defines interoperability simply as "creating a token— a nonfungible token (NFT)" since, at its most basic level, no one can control it besides the creator.

But how does interoperability function presently in Web3, and what is its potential impact?

Executing interoperability the "right" way

When discussing how interoperable applications can create a profound impact, Webb described the creativity he has seen from NFT communities and brands.

Whether it comes from "creating a product, creating ideas, or creating experiences," Webb believes that enabling the creation of intellectual property (IP) allows users to display their loyalty and in other ways, their achievement.

Interoperability also seems to function in tandem with token-gated experiences, according to Webb. In essence, users can get closer to authentic experiences by using the token they hold as an access pass to attend events and receive perks.

This integration enables brands to cross-collaborate, reach their users and create a proliferation of value, or as Webb says, "infinite value."

Interoperability will be borderless

"Interoperability could be the backbone of everything," stated Webb when asked about the sectors interoperability could seep into.

For Webb, the more transparent and data-driven platforms can be, will yield more collaboration and engagement across tech companies. Ultimately, Webb believes that e-commerce, creative experiences and even concepts like identity and self-sovereignty will be impacted by the concept of interoperability.

However, even with interoperability as a cornerstone of Web3, Webb did express the inevitability of risk and challenges associated with creating a standard that suits all countries.

According to Webb, the presence of centralized regulatory bodies could continue to inhibit experimentation and growth.

To hear more from the conversation, tune in and listen to the full episode of NFT Steez on Cointelegraph’s new podcasts page or on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts or TuneIn.

What is cyberpunk: A beginner’s guide to the sci-fi genre

February 6, 2023 Coin Telegraph

Coin Telegraph

Cyberpunk is a subgenre of sci-fi that explores a dystopian future with advanced technology, where the line between man and machine is blurred.

Science fiction’s sub-genre, known as cyberpunk, imagines a dystopian future in which advanced technology has overtaken society and divided it into classes for the haves and the have-nots. The genre frequently examines virtual reality, hacking, artificial intelligence and how technology affects people.

Cyberpunk is distinguished by its emphasis on a future society in which governments and corporations have amassed enormous power and control over people, frequently at the expense of their freedom and privacy. The genre is renowned for its grim and gloomy depictions of a world where technology has gone beyond human control and produced new kinds of exploitation and oppression.

Some popular examples of cyberpunk works include the novel Neuromancer by William Gibson, the film Blade Runner and the video game series Deus Ex. These works have had a lasting impact on the science fiction genre and continue to inspire new works of cyberpunk fiction.

Features of cyberpunk

Some common features of cyberpunk include:

Advanced technology: High-tech gadgets and systems like virtual reality, artificial intelligence, robotics and cybernetic implants are frequently featured in cyberpunk movies.
Dystopian world: Cyberpunk is known for its bleak, dystopian future where corporations and governments have gained immense power and control over individuals, often at the expense of personal freedom and privacy.
Class divide: The gap between the powerful and wealthy, who have access to cutting-edge technology and the rest of society, who are marginalized and left behind, is frequently explored in this genre.
Hacking and rebel protagonists: Many cyberpunk stories feature rebels or hackers who use their technical skills to challenge the established power structures and fight against the corrupt forces that dominate society.
Neon-lit cityscapes: Cyberpunk frequently occurs in gloomy, neon-lit cityscapes, providing a setting for the genre’s fast-paced action and high-tech adventures.
Unique style: The distinctive aesthetic of cyberpunk is noted for its emphasis on neon lights, gloomy, crumbling cityscapes, and a general atmosphere of decay and dystopia.
Exploration of ethics: The genre frequently examines complex moral dilemmas with the proper and improper application of technology, including privacy, security and blending human and machine.

How to create a cyberpunk movie

Because it offers a provocative and frequently sobering look at how technology and society interact, cyberpunk is significant as a literary and cultural phenomenon. Cyberpunk examines the opportunities and perils of a future ruled by cutting-edge technology and artificial intelligence through science fiction.

Here are some steps to creating a cyberpunk movie:

It is vital to remember that the most important thing is to stay true to the genre while also bringing something fresh and unique to the table.

The future of cyberpunk

Although it is difficult to foresee the future of the cyberpunk genre, there are some signs that the themes and ideas it explores will remain important and relevant in the years to come.

Cyberpunk will probably continue to be a source of thought-provoking fiction that explores these topics as technology develops and the concerns of privacy, security and the impact of technology on society become more and more significant. Furthermore, the continued advancement of virtual reality and artificial intelligence has the potential to expand the boundaries of the genre and stimulate new cyberpunk literary works.

Nevertheless, it is worth noting that the cyberpunk genre has developed and evolved over time and will probably do so in the future. For instance, the emergence of cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology has given rise to a new subgenre of cyberpunk known as “blockchainpunk,” which examines the advantages and disadvantages of this novel technology.