Thrasher, which its developers describe as a "mind-melting arcade action odyssey," will be available for the Meta Quest and the Apple Vision Pro on July 25. The SteamVR version will follow at a later date. Thrasher was first announced at The Game Awards last year as a new project by Brian Gibson, who was the artist and composer behind the nightmare-inducing rhythm game Thumper. For Thrasher, Gibson teamed up with Mike Mandel, known for working on games like Rock Band VR and Fuser, who took charge of the coding and research and development.
The player takes control of a space eel in Thrasher, which they have to guide with "fast-paced gesture controls" through unsettling landscapes, so that it can evolve and defeat a cosmic baby god by the end of their journey. Based on the images and teasers the developers have released so far, the game's environments truly do look mind-bending with their psychedelic neon colors and their geometric patterns. Even the eel's powers sound trippy: Players can fight bosses with a rainbow spray of bullets or bulldoze environment elements in a blaze of color and light.
The developers said that Thrasher's "music, visuals, and gameplay mesh into one transcendent experience" for the player. While the virtual reality version offers the most immersive option for gamers, Thrasher is also expected to be available for consoles and PC in the future
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/thrasher-the-psychedelic-game-from-the-artist-behind-thumper-arrives-in-july-133026724.html?src=rss
No one can escape the passage of time or how the body grows old and frail. We can really only delay the inevitable with a healthy lifestyle, but there will always come a time when we’ll need someone or something to lean on while walking or need to sit down more regularly even if there’s not a chair in sight. Walking aids and stools are common sights in everyday life, and products that combine these two are also no longer alien to our eyes. Unfortunately, most of them, while functional, are also unattractive and sometimes even difficult to use. They’re often a cause of embarrassment for users who’d rather leave these at home and endure discomfort rather than be seen using them. Fortunately, all hope is not lost and this rather unique “sitting cane” shows how a well-designed tool can be functional, beautiful, and uplifting all at the same time.
Made from a single piece of solid ash wood split in the middle and held together with six brass bolts, the SNILD, the Danish word for handy or dextrous, shatters expectations of what a walking aid should look like. Rather than a traditional stick or a rod that ends with legs at the bottom, it looks more like a tapered paper clip viewed from the front. The curved top and bottom edges along with the sloping sides give the tool a more elegant and stylish appearance, while also providing bigger surface areas for holding or standing on the floor. The loop at the top also lets you hoist the sitting cane over your shoulder if you need to make use of both hands.
Unlike walking aids that also function as stools, transforming the SNILD is as easy as pulling the top halves apart. This reveals a leather seat that is both durable and comfortable, and it uses simple physics to hold the person up. The rubber feet of the legs provide the necessary grip to prevent the stool or the cane from sliding.
More than its functionality, it’s the design and aesthetic that puts the SNILD above the rest. It has a dignified appearance that goes beyond a simple walking aid or seat, and that sense of dignity is transferred to the user who no longer feels the shame of carrying one. It is a part of the designer’s vision of Everyday Assistive Furniture (EAF) design furniture that’s not only a tool but can even be a source of pride and an heirloom for future generations.
Fine-tuning AI models can be a complex and resource-intensive process, but with the right strategies and techniques, you can optimize it effectively to achieve superior results. This comprehensive guide offers practical tips and advanced methods to streamline your efforts, ensuring efficient use of computational resources and improved model performance. Fine Tuning AI Models Quick Takeaways […]
Apple has recently unveiled a comprehensive suite of new features for watchOS 11 at the Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC). This update focuses on both fitness and non-fitness enhancements, aiming to significantly improve the user experience through detailed fitness tracking, enhanced mapping capabilities, and greater customization options. The video below from DC Rainmaker walks us through […]
Spotify has launched a new campaign that's meant to make users' audio streaming experience on the platform even more personalized. The "My Spotify" initiative will show users home page banners and personalized messages within the app that contain information about their listening habits, along with links to mixes that they'd presumably enjoy based on those habits. In one of the examples above, for instance, Spotify presented a user with a banner that links to a Doja Cat mix, because they've listened to the rapper's tracks 58 times over the past month.
The service showed the user a banner that links to a DJ mix of Go Gina in another example, demonstrating how the messages can be personalized for every listener. A My Spotify banner or message could also link to the "Made For You" hub, where users can find personalized playlists, podcasts, features and recommendations based on their activity on the app.
My Spotify gives the service a way to present users with data of their listening habits around the year, outside of Wrapped. The company's year-in-review feature only goes live during the holiday season, and it takes over social media when it does. It's not quite clear if users will also be able to share their My Spotify messages and banners on social networks. Spotify also didn't say whether it'll make its way to everyone on the app in the future — it only announced that the feature "will appear first" in the US, Canada, UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand over the next several weeks.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/spotify-will-start-showing-you-personalized-banners-and-messages-based-on-your-listening-habits-130007917.html?src=rss
Creating detailed, unique, and compelling characters is a common challenge faced by many authors, especially those just starting out on their writing journey. Developing well-rounded characters with intricate backstories, complex motivations, and distinct voices is essential for crafting stories that captivate readers. However, the process of character development can be time-consuming, mentally taxing, and creatively […]
The Skoda Kodiaq iV is set to transform the plug-in hybrid SUV market with its impressive combination of efficiency, performance, and innovative technology. As the demand for eco-friendly vehicles continues to grow, Skoda has responded with a model that refuses to compromise on the driving experience or practicality. The Kodiaq iV is poised to become […]
Apple’s new AI for the iPhone is called Apple Intelligence, At the recent Worldwide Developers Conference (WWDC), Apple unveiled a range of groundbreaking updates across its operating systems, with artificial intelligence (AI) taking center stage. Now branded as “Apple Intelligence,” these AI-driven enhancements promise to revolutionize the way users interact with their devices, offering unprecedented […]
Following customer outrage over its latest terms of service (ToS), Adobe is making updates to add more detail around areas like of AI and content ownership, the company said in a blog post. "Your content is yours and will never be used to train any generative AI tool," wrote head of product Scott Belsky and VP of legal and policy Dana Rao.
Subscribers using products like Photoshop, Premiere Pro and Lightroom were incensed by new, vague language they interpreted to mean that Adobe could freely use their work to train the company's generative AI models. In other words, creators thought that Adobe could use AI to effectively rip off their work and then resell it.
Other language was thought to mean that the company could actually take ownership of users' copyrighted material (understandably so, when you see it).
None of that was accurate, Adobe said, noting that the new terms of use were put in place for its product improvement program and content moderation for legal reasons, mostly around CSAM. However, many users didn't see it that way and Belsky admitted that the company "could have been clearer" with the updated ToS.
"In a world where customers are anxious about how their data is used, and how generative AI models are trained, it is the responsibility of companies that host customer data and content to declare their policies not just publicly, but in their legally binding Terms of Use," Belsky said.
To that end, the company promised to overhaul the ToS using "more plain language and examples to help customers understand what [ToS clauses] mean and why we have them," it wrote.
Adobe didn't help its own cause by releasing an update on June 6th with some minor changes to the same vague language as the original ToS and no sign of an apology. That only seemed to fuel the fire more, with subscribers to its Creative Cloud service threatening to quit en masse.
In addition, Adobe claims that it only trains its Firefly system on Adobe Stock images. However, multiple artists have noted that their names are used as search terms in Adobe's stock footage site, as Creative Bloq reported. The results yield AI-generated art that occasionally mimics the artists' styles.
Its latest post is more of a true mea culpa with a detailed explanation of what it plans to change. Along with the AI and copyright areas, the company emphasized that users can opt out of its product improvement programs and that it will more "narrowly tailor" licenses to the activities required. It added that it only scans data on the cloud and never looks at locally stored content. Finally, Adobe said it will be listening to customer feedback around the new changes.
This article originally appeared on Engadget at https://www.engadget.com/adobe-is-updating-its-terms-of-service-following-a-backlash-over-recent-changes-120044152.html?src=rss
There is truly something magical about retro-inspired designs, They manage to evoke a deep sense of nostalgia within us, taking us right back to the 80s. And you know who truly loves a good old retro-themed product? Our dads! Maybe because they were actually alive during the 80s, and they feel a sense of wholeness and comfort when they come across such thoughtful designs. With Father’s Day around the corner, you may want to take your dad on a trip down memory lane, by gifting him a cool retro-inspired product. And, we’ve curated a collection of such designs for you to pick from! Though these designs are wonderfully retro-esque, they have been imbibed with modern functionality. Their aesthetics may be from their past, but their utility is embedded in the future. Have a look!
1. NIXOID NEXT
Nixie designed this steampunk-inspired NIXIOD NEXT which incorporates Nixie tubes. The watch features rare Nixie VFD lamps which were discovered around 25 years ago. This unique design beautifully merges a healthy and fascinating mix of futurism and retro, by integrating retro tubes into the form of a modern wristwatch. It’s the perfect Father’s Day present for dads who love a nostalgic touch and want to show off their retro possessions on their wrists.
Why is it noteworthy?
The NIXIOD NEXT merges an accelerometer which lights up the VFD tubes when moved toward the user. The interesting tubes were found in a warehouse from the days of the USSR, making it a historic limited-edition collectible.
What we like
Equipped with charging points on the back, making it an easy charge
Features a scratch-resistant sapphire case
What we dislike
When the watch display changes from hours to minutes, there is a 1.5-second pause
2. Portable CD Cover Player
Called the Portable CD Cover Player, this minimalist CD player is designed to be a unique retro design that merges an exceptional listening experience with the beauty of visual art. You can slip the CD jacket or sleeve inside the specially designed-pocket, enabling you to display and showcase your favorite CD. It’s a great present for your dad, letting him boast his prized CDs from his youthful days, in his home!
The Portable CD Cover Player is essentially the physical equivalent of showcasing digital album art, with the extra benefit of being able to showcase your physical original CD.
What we like
It is a portable product with a 40mm full-range speaker and woofer unit, allowing you to listen to your favorite music wherever you please
Features a 1,800mAh battery providing 7-8 hours of exceptional audio
What we dislike
It does not support syncing music with any digital medium, only an analog style of music-listening
3. ‘A for Ara’ Speakers
If your dad is a music lover, and someone who loves an occasional trip down memory lane, then you may want to consider gifting him these speakers this Father’s Day. Designed by ‘A for Ara’, and called the FS-1 and Fs-2 speakers, these retro-modern speakers feature an eclectic blend of design styles. They have an appeal to them which seems grand and larger-than-life, while also showcasing a nature-inspired theme.
Why is it noteworthy?
The retro-themed speakers have two visual parts – the basic unit, and the upper phonograph-inspired horn. The base unit holds the audio drivers and acoustic cabinet, while the horn has both visual and functional utility. The speakers literally look like massive morning glory flowers, which amplifies sound.
What we like
Merges audiophile-grade engineering and tuning with a mesmerizing avant-garde aesthetic
What we dislike
Bulky and space-consuming design, not suitable for homes with space constraints
4. Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass
Called the Unfiltered Titanium Whisky Glass, this glass is inspired by the range of metallic hues, and it recreates the fascinating light and color play. The result is a stunning visual experience for you with its 1 /f fluctuating pattern, reminiscent of phenomena like murmuring streams. The pure titanium body is not just a material, its a material that amplifies your drinking experience with its purity. The Whisky Glass is a classic piece, handcrafted by skilled Japanese artisans from Shizuoka, making for a wonderful retro-themed gift for your father, if he likes to enjoy a drink or two.
It uses cutting-edge technology which forms a mesmerizing color play. The glass is highly biocompatible and safe, even more than platinum or gold. It is resistant to odors and stains and facilitates long-term hygiene.
What we like
It is the perfect blend of tradition and innovation
Utilizes advanced space development technology
What we dislike
Given that its a solid glass, we cannot look at the quantity being poured or the quantity in the glass from a distance.
5. The Ballast Pen
Promised to be unnecessarily heavy and gloriously over-engineered, this pen is one for the generations. As the name suggests, this pen draws inspiration from the ship’s ballast and is machined from solid brass. The result is a pen that is extremely smooth and heavy, weighing almost 50x more than the disposable alternatives. For father’s who love to collect and cherish heritage pieces, this one is for the ages.
Why is it noteworthy?
Writing with this pen is an exercise, requiring your entire hand. It’s inspiration, the ballad, is the essential yet unseen weight that steadies ships during their age of explorations. The ballast pen embodies this crucial weightiness and history in it’s design.
What we like
Machined from 100% solid brass
Every component of this pen is machined to within one-thousandth of an inch, delivering maximum smoothness
What we dislike
The pen is so outrageously heavy, it is not convenient for long periods of writing.
6. The AirFlow 8-Panel Fire Pit
Called the AirFlow 8-Panel Fire Pit, this modular 8-panel design is a portable sheet metal wonder designed for the outdoors. The unique firepit can be used to create a warm campfire in the winter, or as a high-temperature grilling pit to start up an amazing barbecue for a delicious outdoor meal. If your father enjoys camping or spending time outdoors, this one-of-a-kind firepit allows him to experience the joy of an outdoor fire with ease, so he can spend more time enjoying the campfire rather than fiddling with building it.
The Fire Pit is the perfect lightweight fire-building gear for dads who love spending time outdoors, letting them swiftly build campfires without any trouble. It has a cinder within, which keeps the fire covered, ensuring no embers fall out.
What we like
You can disassemble it into various parts and carry it in a special carrying case
It can be easily assembled within a minute
What we dislike
The design weighs higher than about 6kgs, making it less portable than some of the designs available in the market.
7. Retroduck Q
Called the Retroduck Q, this little design provides fast wireless charging in the form of an aesthetically unique design, which looks like a retro-style television! It is designed to be a quick wireless charger that looks like an old TV but with a modern touch. The design is reminiscent and feels familiar, while also featuring proven technology. It is a handy little gadget to gift your dad on Father’s Day, ensuring his phone never runs out of juice.
Why is it noteworthy?
The original Retroduck was upgraded to form the RetroduckQ, and it features a retro-style smartphone dock, and an added smart wireless charging function. You cannot really compare it with any other wireless charger, it packs modern functionality with nostalgic design into one form.
What we like
A stylish and convenient way to fast charge your smartphone
What we dislike
Given it’s fixed size, it maybe difficult to accommodate the bigger phones comfortably.
8. LEGO Radio
For the father’s who enjoy tinkering with their own design and create something, this LEGO Radio gives them the best of both world’s. The set unfortunately cannot play your local radio station, but it can play the pre-recorded tunes it comes with. The dial can be turned, along with Spotify or Apple Music and comes with an extendable antenna and tuner window as well for those old world feels. After all, it’s never too late to play and rekindle your childhood again.
Why is it noteworthy?
The radio is actually functional, with a select tunes and Apple Music/Spotify support and comes with a colour palette that adds to overall nostalgic feel. Standing at 13 inches high, 9 inches wide and 2.5 inches deep, it is a model that you can tinker with as much as you want without any worry of spoiling the equipment.
What we like
Comes in vintage-inspired green and beige palette
You can plug your smartphone in a concealed compartment on the back panel and play your favourite music
What we dislike
We wish there was a transmitter inserted to actually play live radio stations when we want to!
9. The Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad
Called the Retro 18 Mechanical Numpad, this little product is inspired by the retro aesthetic of the tech from the 80s and 90s. It functions as an independent peripheral device that can be teamed up with its companion keyboard, or even used separately as an old-school calculator. It features a red and black seven-segment display which is pure retro-inspired beauty. If your dad works from home, then the Numpad will make for an exceptional addition to his WFH desk accessories!
Why is it noteworthy?
The Numpad is available in four different colors, each inspired by iconic gaming systems – the M edition, the Famicom edition, the C64 model, and the N edition. They are inspired by the design language of classic consoles, adding a pinch of retro charm to a desk setup.
What we like
Features a rechargeable 1000mAh Li-on battery that offers a solid 160 hours of use on a single charge
What we dislike
It may not match the overall aesthetic of their desk setup, unless we plan on upgrading your keyboard and mouse as well!
10. PENNA
If your father is someone who enjoys retro-inspired designs and works from home, then you may want to consider gifting him PENNA. PENNA is a wireless Bluetooth keyboard inspired by a typewriter. It is far from a normal keyboard – it features diamond or chrome keycaps, as well as a cherry key switch. It has a macro bar to save frequently used keys/words. Best of all, you can dock your tablet or phone in the keyboard for ease of use while typing on the go.
Why is it noteworthy?
It is amped with Bluetooth 4.2 with a low energy requirement which ensures long idle battery time. You can register up to 5 devices with the keyboard using Bluetooth. It supports all OS including Windows, Android, and iOS.
What we like
The perfect combination of nostalgic design and modern tech
Maintains up to 6 months of idle time with two AA-size batteries
What we dislike
The switch labeling on one side of the keyboard looks quite unappealing and isn’t very clear either
