Tame the Bookmarking Monster: A File-Based Approach
Ever feel like your bookmarks are a wilderness, untamed and sprawling? Yeah, me too. It’s like that junk drawer in the kitchen, crammed with things you might need someday. But guess what? I stumbled upon a strategy that’s been a game-changer, and it’s all about thinking like a computer.
Bookmarks as Files? You Bet!
When organizing your computer files, you likely create folders within folders to keep things tidy and easy to find. This same approach can work wonders for organizing your bookmarks. Instead of having a long, disorganized list of bookmarks, you can create neat categories such as Recipes, Tech News, or DIY Projects. Each of these categories can be treated as a folder, and you can even create subfolders within them to further organize your bookmarks. This way, you can easily locate specific bookmarks without feeling like you’re on an expedition through the Amazon rainforest. For example, if you’re looking for a specific sourdough recipe, you can simply navigate to your “Recipes” folder and find it without any hassle.
Now, the cool part is that some modern web browsers, such as Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox, have a feature that allows you to easily drag and drop bookmarks just like you would with files on your computer. This means that if you come across a great article on home brewing, for example, you can simply click and drag it into your DIY Projects folder within your bookmarks. This makes organizing and managing your saved web content much more intuitive and user-friendly.
Bookmarking Support?
Unfortunately, this feature isn’t universally supported across all web browsers at the moment, but it’s definitely a step in the right direction. It’s exciting to think about the potential for this functionality to become more widespread in the future, making it even easier for users to organize and access their online resources.
The Consistency of Bookmarking (and a Little Detective Work)
The real magic happens when you embrace this file-like system across all your devices. Picture this: You’re out and about, browsing on your phone, and you stumble upon something interesting. With a simple tap, you can bookmark it directly into your organized system. No more emailing links to yourself or struggling to recall them later. This seamless experience allows you to effortlessly save and access your bookmarks across all your devices. While it may take a bit of detective work to figure out how each browser syncs bookmarks, the convenience and time saved make it entirely worthwhile.
Bookmarking Mastered: Time Saved, Sanity Intact
We’ve all found ourselves in that frustrating situation: endlessly scrolling through a cluttered list of bookmarks, desperately searching for a specific link. This file-based approach might seem overly simplistic at first glance, but it’s a game-changer in reclaiming control over your saved content. By organizing your bookmarks into easily accessible files, you can save valuable time and experience the satisfaction of streamlining your digital life.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing various sectors, and education is no exception. As schools and universities aim to modernize learning environments, AI offers transformative benefits in creating personalized experiences, automating administrative tasks, and fostering inclusivity. Below, we explore the core contributions of AI to education, its impact on students and teachers, and how it prepares future generations for a tech-driven world.
AI in Education: Key Takeaways
AI in Education Contribution
Impact
Personalized Learning
AI customizes learning paths, enabling students to learn at their own pace and target areas where they need the most improvement [source].
Automating Administrative Tasks
AI streamlines tasks like grading and attendance, giving educators more time to engage with students [source].
Supporting Inclusive Education
AI tools, such as speech-to-text and translation software, make education accessible for students with disabilities or language barriers [source].
Equipping Students with Future-Ready Skills
AI fosters digital literacy, critical thinking, and problem-solving, essential for students’ future careers [source].
Real-Time Feedback
AI provides immediate feedback to students and teachers, helping identify learning gaps and adjusting strategies in real-time [source].
Personalized Learning through AI
AI’s most notable contribution to education is its ability to tailor learning experiences to each student’s needs. Traditionally, educators were limited in how much they could customize lessons for individual students. With AI, platforms can now track student performance, identify strengths and weaknesses, and recommend personalized resources [source].
Bar chart showing AI contributions to education, highlighting areas such as personalized learning (35%), task automation (31%), accessibility and inclusion (15%), real-time feedback (15%), and future-ready skills (10%)
For example, adaptive learning systems allow students to progress at their own pace, providing more challenging material when they’re ready or offering additional support when necessary. AI platforms, such as those used in adaptive learning tools, analyze student data and predict learning outcomes, ensuring every learner receives the best support [source].
Teachers often face time constraints due to the heavy burden of administrative tasks like grading, lesson planning, and attendance tracking. AI tools can automate these responsibilities, freeing up teachers to focus on classroom instruction and student engagement [source]. AI not only reduces the workload but also increases the accuracy and efficiency of administrative tasks.
For example, AI grading systems can evaluate both standardized and non-standardized tests, ensuring students receive timely feedback. This not only helps teachers but also enhances the learning experience for students by providing them with immediate, actionable feedback [source].
AI in Education: Enhancing Accessibility and Inclusion
AI has proven to be a powerful tool for fostering an inclusive education system, especially for students with disabilities or those from non-English speaking backgrounds. For instance, speech-to-text and text-to-speech applications help students with learning disabilities access educational content. AI can convert spoken language into text for visually impaired students or read out content for those who struggle with reading [source].
Furthermore, real-time translation tools allow students from different linguistic backgrounds to participate in lessons without language barriers. This has been especially helpful in global classrooms where students of diverse nationalities and languages collaborate on projects [source].
AI in Education: Preparing Students for Future Job Markets
In addition to improving current learning experiences, AI is vital in preparing students for future careers. The rise of AI in various industries has shifted the types of skills needed to succeed. AI education equips students with critical skills, such as digital literacy, problem-solving, and critical thinking, which are essential for navigating the job market [source].
AI In Education: Real-Time Feedback and Continuous Improvement
AI’s ability to deliver real-time feedback is invaluable in promoting continuous improvement for students. In traditional learning environments, feedback often comes too late to address immediate learning gaps. AI systems provide instant, data-driven insights that help both students and teachers adjust their strategies accordingly [source].
Ethical Considerations of AI in Education: The Future
While AI offers immense potential, its integration into education must be managed with care. Concerns about data privacy and algorithmic bias must be addressed to ensure that AI systems remain equitable and transparent [source].
AI’s transformative power in education is undeniable. From personalized learning to automating administrative tasks, AI makes education more accessible, inclusive, and tailored to individual needs. By fostering essential future-ready skills and ensuring continuous feedback, AI positions students for success in an increasingly tech-driven world. However, it’s equally important to implement AI responsibly, ensuring equity and data privacy are prioritized.
As AI continues to evolve, its role in education will expand, bringing even more innovative solutions that will shape the future of learning for generations to come.
“The role of AI in education is not to replace teachers, but to empower them, enabling a future where personalized learning and accessibility are the norm for every student.” – Anonymous
So, you’re grooving to your favorite playlist, completely lost in the music, and then… silence. Did your internet connection drop? Nope. Your phone is still connected. Then it hits you – Spotify is down!
You’re not alone. It seems like everyone’s favorite music streaming service decided to take a little break this morning. Around 10:40 AM ET, the internet went abuzz with people reporting problems. Trust me, I tried to refresh my Spotify tab at least a dozen times (don’t judge).
Both the app and the website seem to be affected. Trying to stream your go-to playlist on the app? No luck. Hoping to discover some new tunes on the website? Get ready for a whole lot of loading and frustrating error messages.
And the worst part? Spotify hasn’t officially said anything yet! They’re probably getting bombarded with questions on Twitter as we speak.
What Now?
Well, until Spotify gets their act together, maybe it’s time to dust off that old record player in the attic or finally start that acapella group you’ve been talking about (just kidding… maybe).
In all seriousness, we’ll keep you updated as soon as we hear anything. In the meantime, maybe try closing and reopening the app or checking your internet connection (just in case). You never know!
Ever feel like you just missed out on a great deal? Yeah, me too. But guess what? You haven’t missed out on this one. The Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge is at an all-time low price right now, and it’s calling your name.
We’re talking a whopping $500 off the 16-inch model at Best Buy. $500! That’s like finding a $100 bill in your pocket every day for a week (okay, maybe not, but you get the point). Even the 14-inch version is a steal at $450 off.
But what about the specs, you ask? Well, get ready to be impressed. This laptop boasts a stunning OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate. Trust me, once you go OLED, you never go back. Colors are more vibrant, scrolling is smoother, and it’s just a feast for your eyes.
Now, let’s talk about the processor. It’s powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon, which might not be the powerhouse you need for high-end gaming, but for everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, and even some light work, it’s more than capable. Plus, it sips power like a hummingbird, giving you over 14 hours of battery life. Say goodbye to battery anxiety!
Galaxy Book: More Sweet Deals to Satisfy Your Tech Cravings
But wait, there’s more! If you’re looking for other tech goodies, we’ve got you covered:
Need some earbuds for your workouts? The Beats Fit Pro are down to $139.95 at Woot. They’re noise-canceling, sweat-resistant, and sound amazing. Plus, they come with those handy little fins that keep them glued to your ears no matter how intense your workout gets.
Tired of fumbling with your garage door opener? The Meross Wi-Fi Door Opener is only $25.79 on Amazon. It’s compatible with a bunch of garage door models and you can even control it with your voice using Alexa or Google Assistant. Talk about living in the future!
And for all you Disney fans out there (don’t worry, I’m one of you), the Jack Skellington Echo Dot is up for pre-order for just $62. It’s not just a cool-looking gadget; it also boasts impressive sound quality and even acts as a Wi-Fi extender. Plus, who doesn’t want Jack Skellington’s glowing face in their living room?
So, what are you waiting for? These deals won’t last forever, so go ahead and treat yourself. You deserve it!
Meta Fined a Whopping $100 Million for Password Blunder
Remember that time you forgot your Facebook password and had to reset it? Seems like a simple, everyday occurrence, right? Well, what if I told you that for a period, Facebook’s parent company, Meta, was storing some user passwords as plain text? You read that right, plain text!
What does this mean exactly?
Imagine leaving your diary open on a park bench. Anyone could walk by and read your deepest secrets! Storing passwords in plain text is kind of like that. If someone hacks into the system, boom, they have access to all those passwords. Not exactly the kind of security you’d expect from a tech giant, right?
The Irish Data Protection Commission (DPC), kind of like the data police of Europe, definitely didn’t find it amusing. They slapped Meta with a hefty fine – over $100 million! Why Ireland, you ask? Well, Meta’s European headquarters happen to be there, making it the DPC’s responsibility to lay down the law.
Facebook/Meta – The Big No-No:
Storing passwords in plain text is a huge violation of data protection regulations. It’s like leaving the vault door wide open at a bank. There are secure ways to store passwords, like hashing and salting (no, not the kind you sprinkle on food!), which make them gobbledygook to anyone unauthorized.
Facebook/Meta: The Takeaway:
This whole ordeal is a stark reminder that even the biggest tech giants aren’t above the law. It also highlights how crucial data protection is in this digital age. So next time you create a password, remember this cautionary tale. A strong, unique password and two-factor authentication are your best defense against the digital villains out there!
Ever scrolled through Google Maps looking for a good bite, only to find a restaurant with suspiciously glowing reviews? Like, five stars across the board, with comments like best meal I’ve ever had? Yeah, we’ve all been there.
Well, Google Maps has finally decided to do something about those shady reviews. They’re rolling out new measures to combat businesses trying to game the system.
Here’s the lowdown:
Google’s onto those businesses offering freebies or straight-up paying for positive reviews. Their updated Fake Engagement policy says nope to any content that doesn’t give you the real deal about a place. Think of it like this: they’re calling out the restaurant offering a free dessert buffet for five-star reviews.
But how will Google actually catch these fakers, you ask? They’re keeping mum on the specifics, but they’re on the lookout for suspicious activity like a flood of positive reviews from brand-new accounts. They’re also cracking down on businesses using bots or other sneaky tactics to artificially inflate their ratings. Imagine someone trying to pass off a room full of hamsters clicking on five stars as genuine customer feedback – Google’s smarter than that (we hope!).
And here’s the kicker: if Google catches a business red-handed, they’re not just deleting the fake reviews. They’re putting a big, fat warning sign on the business’s profile for everyone to see. Talk about a reputation killer, right?
Now, before you start celebrating, there’s a slight catch. These changes are currently only in effect in the UK. But hey, it’s a start, right? And who knows, maybe soon enough, we’ll all be enjoying a world where Google Maps reviews are as trustworthy as your grandma’s recipe for apple pie (almost!).
So, next time you’re on Google Maps, keep an eye out for those warning signs. And remember, a little skepticism never hurt anyone. After all, wouldn’t you rather discover a hidden gem for yourself than fall for a carefully crafted online persona?
Ever dropped your Pixel Watch and felt that sinking feeling in your stomach? Yeah, me too. That gut punch is usually followed by a mental calculation of just how much a new watch is going to set you back. Ouch.
Good News on the Horizon?
Well, friends, there might be some good news on the horizon. Word on the street is that Google is listening to our pain (or maybe they’re just tired of seeing perfectly good watches in landfills). They’re apparently cooking up ways to make the Pixel Watch more repairable!
Imagine this: Your watch takes a tumble, and instead of kissing your hard-earned cash goodbye, you can just swap out the busted part. Sounds pretty amazing, right?
Okay, so maybe you’re thinking, It’s just a watch, why all the fuss? Well, think about it. How many gadgets do we go through in a lifetime? Now multiply that by, well, everyone. It adds up to a mountain of electronic waste, and let’s be honest, our planet has had enough of that.
Making things repairable just makes sense. It’s good for our wallets and it’s good for the environment. Plus, who doesn’t love a good tech upgrade that doesn’t involve guilt-tripping yourself about the environmental impact?
What’s Google Got Up Their Sleeve?
Details are still a bit hush-hush, but the rumor mill suggests Google is looking at how to make it easier to replace things like batteries and screens. You know, the things that seem to break if you look at them sideways (or maybe that’s just me?).
Pixel Watch: A Step in the Right Direction
Look, it might not seem like a big deal, but this whole repairability thing could be a game-changer. If Google pulls it off, who knows, maybe other tech giants will follow suit. And that, my friends, is something worth getting excited about.
Remember when everyone thought Meta was ditching the whole chat with a celebrity bot thing? Yeah, about that… looks like they’re not quite ready to throw in the towel. In fact, they’re doubling down, signing deals with some pretty big names. Are we talking Snoop Dogg levels of fame? Not quite, but still pretty big. Think more like Tom Hanks in Big – recognizable, talented, but maybe not the first name that pops into your head.
Word on the street is that folks like D’Amelio (that’s Charli and Dixie, for those not fluent in TikTok), Kristen Bell (you know, the voice of Gossip Girl – and Anna in Frozen!), John Judich (the Mindhunter guy), and Keegan-Michael Key (of Key & Peele fame) are all lending their voices to Meta’s AI posse. This comes hot on the heels of earlier whispers about Meta courting celebs for these voice cameos. Seems those whispers weren’t just industry gossip after all.
So, what’s the big idea? Why is Meta so gung-ho about having us chat with AI versions of famous folks? Think about it – who are you more likely to engage with: a generic chatbot named Helper Bot 3000 or one that sounds like your favorite comedian? It’s all about that personal touch, that sense of familiarity that draws you in. Clever, right?
Whether this gamble pays off is another story. Will people buy into the illusion of chatting with a star, or will it feel, well, kinda creepy? Guess only time will tell. One thing’s for sure, though, things just got a whole lot more interesting in the world of AI.
Apollo Eyes Up Intel: A Multibillion-Dollar Tech Tango?
Remember that friend who always seems to be at the center of the action? The one everyone wants a piece of? Well, in the tech world, Intel is looking a lot like that friend right now.
Word on the street is that Apollo, a private equity firm with deep pockets and even deeper ambitions, has its sights set on Intel. We’re talking about a potential multibillion-dollar investment, the kind that makes headlines and sets tongues wagging in Silicon Valley.
The Chip Giant, for all its history and influence, has had its share of struggles lately. Think of it like a seasoned athlete trying to keep up with younger, faster competitors. This potential cash infusion from Apollo? It could be just the boost Intel needs to regain its footing and maybe even surge ahead.
Now, this isn’t the first time the chip firm caught the eye of a potential suitor. Remember those whispers about Qualcomm sniffing around? Yeah, it seems Apollo might be cutting in for this particular dance.
The Bigger Picture
What does this all mean for the rest of us glued to our devices? Well, the semiconductor industry is kind of a big deal. It’s the engine that powers our smartphones, laptops, and countless other gadgets we rely on. A shakeup like this, with Apollo potentially holding sway at Intel, could have ripple effects throughout the tech world.
Will this deal go through? What strings might be attached to Apollo’s investment? And how will it impact Intel’s future? Stay tuned, because things are about to get interesting in tech land.
So, Jony Ive, the design genius behind the iPhone, is teaming up with OpenAI, the brains behind ChatGPT. Sounds like the start of a tech joke, right? But this is no joke. This is actually happening.
A Device Shrouded in Mystery
Details are about as clear as a muddy puddle right now, but what we *do* know is intriguing. Imagine a device so smart it makes Siri look like a flip phone. Think summarizing your emails before you even ask, recognizing your friend’s dog in a photo, or even booking your entire vacation (flights, hotel, the works) with just a few taps. That’s the kind of power we’re talking about, folks.
Ive has rounded up a small but mighty team, including some familiar faces who helped bring the iPhone to life. Remember how revolutionary the iPhone’s touchscreen was? Yeah, it makes you wonder what they’re cooking up this time.
Big Bucks, Big Names
And let’s not forget the financial firepower behind this project. We’re talking potentially a billion dollars from some pretty heavy hitters, including Laurene Powell Jobs’ Emerson Collective. It’s clear they see serious potential here.
The Future of AI in Your Hands?
Look, we all know AI is a big deal. But with this kind of collaboration, it feels like we’re on the verge of something truly game-changing. Are we about to witness the birth of a whole new category of devices? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: I’ll be first in line to find out.
Ever wonder how LinkedIn seems to know exactly what job you’re looking for (even when you’re not)? Or how it magically suggests connections that could boost your career? Well, my friend, it’s all thanks to the power of AI, and guess what? You’re a key player in this whole AI game.
Hold Up, What’s Going On?
Here’s the lowdown: LinkedIn recently tweaked its privacy policy, and let’s just say they weren’t exactly shouting it from the rooftops. Buried in the legal jargon was a little nugget about using our data to train their AI models. Yep, that means all that juicy information you’ve been diligently adding to your profile – your work experience, skills, connections – it’s all fair game.
Now, before you go full-on panic mode, there is an opt-out option (because, you know, choice is always good). Head over to your account settings, navigate to the ‘Data Privacy’ section, and you’ll find the magical ‘Data for Generative AI Improvement’ toggle. Switch it off, and you’re basically telling LinkedIn to keep their AI paws off your precious data.
But here’s the catch: opting out only applies to *future* AI training. Anything you’ve shared before? Well, let’s just say it’s already been added to the AI learning buffet. Think of it like trying to un-eat a delicious cookie – you can’t.
LinkedIn assures us they’re using fancy privacy-enhancing technologies to blur out any personal details before feeding our data to their AI models. They also claim they don’t use data from folks in the EU, EEA, or Switzerland for this purpose.
But let’s be real, privacy-enhancing technologies sounds a lot like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? How much can we actually trust that our data is truly anonymized? It’s a bit of a head-scratcher.
Beyond Generative AI
And if you thought generative AI was the only way LinkedIn uses your data, buckle up! They’ve got a whole arsenal of machine learning tools working behind the scenes. These tools help with things like tailoring your feed, recommending connections, and yes, even moderating content.
The good news is you can opt out of this data party too. Just fill out the oh-so-catchy LinkedIn Data Processing Objection Form (because who doesn’t love a good form, right?).
Joining the AI Club
LinkedIn isn’t exactly alone in this whole data-for-AI thing. Remember Meta? Yeah, the Facebook folks. Turns out they’ve been using non-private user data to train their models since 2007. So, you know, welcome to the club, LinkedIn.
So, What Now?
The big question is, what does all of this mean for you? Well, it’s all about making informed choices. Now that you know how your data is being used, you can decide whether you’re cool with it or if you’d rather keep your information on lockdown.
Yeah, that game you (and maybe your grandma) were obsessed with back in the day? Well, grab your virtual tractors because there’s still some serious drama unfolding. It turns out those digital crops came with some real-world legal weeds.
A jury decided that Zynga, the company behind Farmville, owes IBM a hefty sum of almost $45 million. Why? Apparently, building your digital farm empire might have involved stepping on IBM’s patent toes. The legal battle centered around two patents owned by IBM, and the jury sided with them.
Think Zynga’s just handing over a giant check? Think again. They’ve made it clear they’re not happy about this ruling and plan to fight it. For now, though, you can keep harvesting those virtual strawberries without worry. Zynga has assured everyone that the games aren’t going anywhere.
The Saga Continues:
So, what does this all mean? Basically, the Farmville drama is far from over. This legal battle might drag on for a while, with both sides digging in their heels. It makes you wonder, is all this legal wrangling really worth it for a few virtual tomatoes?
Ever scrolled through TikTok and thought, Wait, what if this is it? What if the endless stream of dance challenges and cat videos just…vanishes? Yeah, sounds dramatic, right? But that’s the very real possibility looming over our beloved TikTok.
A Digital Showdown
Here’s the deal: TikTok’s in a legal battle for its life in the US. Imagine a courtroom showdown, but instead of finger-pointing witnesses, it’s lawyers arguing over algorithms and national security. The judges? Let’s just say they didn’t seem totally convinced by TikTok’s side of the story.
TikTok’s basically saying, Hey, this is about more than just funny videos, it’s about free speech! They’re arguing that forcing them to separate from their Chinese parent company is practically a ban, stifling the creativity of millions.
On the other side, the US government’s all like, Hold up, we’ve got national security concerns here. They’re worried about TikTok’s Chinese ownership and what that means for user data. It’s a classic case of Can’t we all just get along? except with much higher stakes.
Tough Crowd
The judges, though? They weren’t exactly throwing roses at TikTok. They kept grilling TikTok’s lawyers with questions, almost like they were trying to find holes in their arguments. One judge even pointed out that if Congress passes a law, they don’t have to justify it like a government agency would. Ouch.
What Happens Now?
Well, that’s the million-dollar question, isn’t it? Will TikTok be forced to make some major changes, like revealing more about how they handle our data? Or could the US really go as far as banning the app altogether?
It’s a tough situation, and no matter what happens, it’s going to have huge implications. Not just for TikTok and its users, but for how we think about online freedom, data privacy, and the influence of foreign companies in the digital age.
So, the next time you’re scrolling through your For You page, take a moment to appreciate the digital tightrope TikTok’s walking. Because who knows? This might be the last dance.
Instagram Comments Making a Run for It? Hold My Coffee.
Alright, let’s talk about this whole Instagram comment situation. Ever found yourself typing out a comment so witty, so profound, that it deserves a bigger audience than just your Instagram followers? Okay, maybe not *that* profound, but you get the idea. Well, it seems Instagram might be listening.
Sharing is Caring… or is it?
Rumor has it, Instagram is testing out a feature that lets you share your comments – yes, those nuggets of wisdom you leave under your friend’s latest vacation pics – over to Threads. Picture this: you drop a hilarious comment on your friend’s questionable cooking attempt, and with a click of a button, it’s on Threads too, ready to garner even more laughs (or groans, depending on the cooking).
Remember when Meta tried merging everything into one big, happy online family? Yeah, some of us weren’t exactly thrilled about that. This new comment-sharing thing? Feels a bit like déjà vu, doesn’t it? But hey, at least this time it’s just a comment, not your entire digital life story.
Threads: Finding its Footing
Let’s be real, Threads has been trying to find its place in the social media universe. It’s like that new coffee shop on the block – potential is there, but it needs something to really draw the crowds in. Maybe this whole comment integration thing is it? Who knows, it might just be the shot of espresso Threads needs.
Plus, let’s not forget the whole no-direct-messaging thing on Threads. Kind of awkward, right? It’s like going to a party and not being able to chat one-on-one. But hey, at least you can still slide into those DMs on Instagram. Crisis averted.
Fedi-what now?
Oh, and then there’s the fediverse. Sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right? Basically, it’s this whole network of interconnected platforms that Meta wants Threads to be friends with. Think of it like expanding your social circle, but online. More connections, more conversations – the possibilities are endless (or at least, that’s the idea).
So, will this whole comment-sharing thing be a hit or a miss? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure, Meta is working hard to keep us all connected, whether we like it or not. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a comment about my friend’s questionable fashion choices that needs to be shared with the world… or at least Instagram and Threads.
Picture this: you’re sitting in a packed theater, popcorn in hand, ready for the latest cinematic masterpiece. But this isn’t your average moviegoing experience. What if you could actually interact with the characters on screen? That was the bold vision Francis Ford Coppola, the legendary director behind films like The Godfather and Apocalypse Now, had for his newest venture, Megalopolis.
A Conversation with Cesar? Almost.
Imagine having a burning question for Adam Driver’s character, the enigmatic Cesar, and getting a personalized response right then and there. Coppola wanted to make that a reality. His plan? To harness the power of Amazon’s Alexa to create a customized voice recognition system for the film. Think of it—every screening could have been a unique, interactive performance, blurring the lines between cinema and ancient theater. Talk about ambitious!
But as with any grand experiment, things didn’t quite go to plan. Just as Amazon was developing their tailored voice-recognition system, widespread layoffs hit the company, putting the kibosh on the project. Disappointing? Absolutely. Did it stop Coppola? Not entirely.
A Glimmer of the Vision
While the full interactive dream was put on hold, a sliver of the original concept remains. Adam Driver himself suggested keeping one pre-recorded response to a specific question, giving audiences a taste of what might have been. You can catch this limited interactive feature in some UK cinemas and at select festival screenings.
A Festival Surprise
Speaking of festival screenings, one particular event took an unexpected turn. Imagine the screen going dark, only to have a real person walk out and direct a question to Driver’s character on the blank screen. Surreal? Confusing? A little bit of both, according to those who were there.
So, What Did We Learn?
Megalopolis might not have ushered in a new era of interactive cinema (yet!), but it highlights the exciting possibilities—and potential pitfalls—of merging technology with filmmaking. It makes you wonder, what will filmmakers think of next, and will technology catch up with their imaginations?
