The top stories from Hacker News, each with a screenshot of the page and a short summary, so you can see what a link is before you click it. Updated continuously. Get it as a daily email.
Software rendering in DOS games like Quake produces sharp, gritty visuals with crisp textures and visible color banding, offering a distinct aesthetic. Running these renderers on modern hardware allows for high resolutions and smooth frame rates, preserving the original look and feel of classic games. (jamesfmackenzie.com)
A new method to invoke JavaScript functions without parentheses involves overwriting the prepareStackTrace function and manipulating object prototypes. This technique enables arbitrary code execution by controlling error stack traces and array-to-string conversions. (blog.ikaes.de)
Today's best Hacker News stories, summarized and screenshotted, one email a day.
![Woman who rescued injured crow keeps getting 'thank-you gifts' from birds [video]](https://hntoday.pixelshot.io/screenshots/20261013/d36412dce2774237_tn.jpeg)
A woman who rescued an injured crow receives repeated 'thank-you' gifts from the birds. The video highlights the unique bond between humans and animals. (youtube.com)
Researchers calculated the economic complexity of the Roman Empire using Latin inscriptions from the LIST dataset, which includes spatial and textual data. They analyzed funerary and honorific inscriptions to infer economic development and social structures of the period. (michelecoscia.com)
Meta will implement a policy starting October 30 that requires business accounts to give consent for Meta to scrape their websites. This change allows Meta to collect data from news sites as part of its operations. (niemanlab.org)
Muse Spark Open is the most capable open-weight AI model to date, optimized for desktop use on Apple M5 Ultra Macs. It excels at complex reasoning, coding, and agentic tasks, and is available for download and integration through multiple platforms. (research.meta.ai)
AI-assisted PCB design for KiCad 10 is a native plugin that integrates 217 schematic, layout, routing, and manufacturing tools through a Rust binary. It allows users to leverage language models like Claude for various design tasks in KiCad. (github.com)
A two-stack algorithm efficiently maintains sliding window aggregations for non-invertible operations like minimum or quantile, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. It achieves amortized constant time per operation, making it suitable for real-time data analysis. (orlp.net)
Neural networks are designed to operate in a way that minimizes the need for extensive data cleaning before training. This suggests that they are inherently capable of handling raw data more effectively than previously thought. (already-clean.goodfire.com)
Folders is a programming language based on creating nested folder structures. It uses directory hierarchies to represent code and logic visually. (danieltemkin.com)
Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed BioPykrete, an ice-based material that is ten times stronger than regular ice and more energy-absorbent. The biodegradable material could be used for construction in cold regions, reducing environmental impact compared to traditional building materials. (sciencealert.com)
MS Paint has added a new feature that allows freeform rotation of images. The update is part of the Windows 11 Insider Preview build 28020.1619 for the canary channel. (blogs.windows.com)
RPKI now protects 70% of internet routes, up from 54% a year ago, with significant growth in China. This increase enhances the security of BGP routing by verifying IP address announcements and reducing misrouting risks. (ipinfo.io)
Self-hosting has been a long-standing interest for the author, who previously ran a website from a Linux server and used media servers like MythTV and Kodi. They now rely on self-hosted services such as Jellyfin to avoid cloud dependence and retain control over their digital environment. (viceconsole.fyi)
A new Wayland desktop environment for Linux features skeuomorphic design elements, aiming to improve user interface familiarity. The project is hosted on GitHub with ongoing development and community support. (github.com)
Jev and other decision models were tested on the Trolley Problem to evaluate their ethical decision-making capabilities. These models, which output choices with confidence levels, are seen as a new, faster, and cheaper approach to decision-making in AI. (zachlandes.com)
Apple designed a graphite pipe through the iPhone Duo's hinge to help dissipate heat. This innovative cooling method aims to improve device performance and longevity. (pcmag.com)
Sill allows users to view any window from their Mac on their iPhone or iPad, supporting touch, Apple Pencil, trackpad, and keyboard input. It is a free, open-source project that operates without servers and is compatible with Apple devices. (github.com)
Withings has introduced a $99 annual fee for new users to sync their devices with Apple Health. The change may have been implemented without Apple's prior notice, potentially affecting Withings' sales channels. (support.withings.com)
The CGPM has adopted a resolution to ensure the ongoing technical actions necessary for the continuity of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This involves international collaboration to maintain the accuracy and stability of time measurement standards globally. (bipm.org)
Muse Spark Open is the most capable open-weight AI model to date, optimized for desktop use on Apple M5 Ultra Macs. It excels at complex reasoning, coding, and agentic tasks, and is available for download and integration through multiple platforms. (research.meta.ai)
AI-assisted PCB design for KiCad 10 is a native plugin that integrates 217 schematic, layout, routing, and manufacturing tools through a Rust binary. It allows users to leverage language models like Claude for various design tasks in KiCad. (github.com)
Neural networks are designed to operate in a way that minimizes the need for extensive data cleaning before training. This suggests that they are inherently capable of handling raw data more effectively than previously thought. (already-clean.goodfire.com)
Jev and other decision models were tested on the Trolley Problem to evaluate their ethical decision-making capabilities. These models, which output choices with confidence levels, are seen as a new, faster, and cheaper approach to decision-making in AI. (zachlandes.com)
Krea 3 is a high-speed image editing model that is four times faster than Nano Banana Pro and costs significantly less per image. It is designed for production use across various industries, enabling rapid and cost-effective image modifications. (krea.ai)
Christian Schaller used AI tools like Claude to reverse engineer and fix hardware drivers, including a scanner and MIPI camera support. The AI-assisted approach enabled rapid development of functional drivers and patches, improving hardware compatibility under Linux. (blogs.gnome.org)
Non-determinism in LLMs does not hinder software development because multiple approaches can lead to the same correct result. Engineers can reduce randomness by using deterministic tools and agents to achieve consistent outcomes in mission-critical systems. (sklar.rocks)
Geoffrey Hinton warns that AI is creating alien-like beings and we have only a few years to adapt to this reality. He criticizes Donald Trump's understanding of superintelligence and emphasizes the need to prioritize human interests. (theguardian.com)
A two-stack algorithm efficiently maintains sliding window aggregations for non-invertible operations like minimum or quantile, overcoming limitations of traditional methods. It achieves amortized constant time per operation, making it suitable for real-time data analysis. (orlp.net)
C++26 introduces contracts to specify preconditions and postconditions for functions, replacing traditional assertions. Contracts are declared with function prototypes and evaluated during runtime to ensure code correctness. (cppstories.com)
OpenCode 2.0 introduces a major overhaul with a unified client/server system that runs automatically on users' machines, improving performance and usability. The update includes new features, an improved API, dark mode, and native apps, making the system more flexible and user-friendly. (anoma.ly)
Stario has developed a multiplayer version of the Game of Life that uses hypermedia and is built with Python. The game currently has 0 players playing and 1171 players alive. (stario.dev)
Standard C has many incompatibilities with how C is implemented in real-world compilers like gcc and clang, leading to non-conformance by default. These differences include handling of asm keywords, floating-point rounding modes, and support for standard pragmas, which are often ignored or unsupported by compilers. (sebsite.pw)
Ito is a terminal UI library built in Lua that allows users to create customizable and minimal terminal interfaces. It is designed to be flexible, with features like built-in abstractions, provider definitions, and an experimental web version using wasm. (uji.sh)
Double-headed stack allocators are a high-performance memory management technique used in graphics and game development, allowing allocations from both ends of a pre-allocated block. This method optimizes transient memory usage, such as for animation blending in real-time applications. (blog.demofox.org)
A curl version of a website was built for terminal viewing, inspired by similar projects but with a distinct approach. The creator used a custom markup language and static site generator to produce ANSI-marked-up files for the entire blog, accessible via curl commands. (nytpu.com)
Tesla announced the Roadster, an electric sports car featuring impressive performance capabilities and innovative technology. Production is scheduled to begin in 2028, with a focus on high-speed jumping functions and advanced design. (tesla.com)
Crowd Supply is a platform that supports hardware creators by funding innovative projects like open-source controllers, synthesizers, and secure password managers. The platform showcases successful campaigns with high funding rates and a variety of tools for electronics and hardware development. (crowdsupply.com)
A new method to invoke JavaScript functions without parentheses involves overwriting the prepareStackTrace function and manipulating object prototypes. This technique enables arbitrary code execution by controlling error stack traces and array-to-string conversions. (blog.ikaes.de)
RPKI now protects 70% of internet routes, up from 54% a year ago, with significant growth in China. This increase enhances the security of BGP routing by verifying IP address announcements and reducing misrouting risks. (ipinfo.io)
Malware disguised as a South Park episode was uploaded to torrent sites and automatically downloaded by Sonarr, which failed to detect it. The malware is a heavily obfuscated PE file that decrypts and runs a hidden payload entirely in memory, evading disk-based detection. (thereallo.dev)
A Delaware jury found that Arm breached its license agreement with Qualcomm by withholding software patches and interfering with Qualcomm's business. Qualcomm was awarded only $2 in damages, but the legal dispute over licensing and royalties continues, with potential billions at stake. (techpowerup.com)
Libreboot 26.10 introduces full UEFI support and adds support for 233 Intel/AMD Chromebooks using the EDK2 payload. The release features major design changes, including a new anti-AI policy and enhanced hardware compatibility. (libreboot.org)
Phil Zimmermann explains that privacy in electronic communication is essential and that encryption like PGP is necessary to protect personal and political conversations from surveillance. He argues that technological advances have made routine monitoring of emails and calls easy, challenging the right to privacy established in earlier times. (philzimmermann.com)
Amsterdam police seized a server belonging to Italian internet provider Autistici/Inventati at the request of U.S. authorities, citing allegations of supporting antifa. The move follows U.S. sanctions that labeled A/I a terrorist organization and impacted its operations, including disbandment by volunteers. (nltimes.nl)
A security vulnerability in ICQ allowed attackers to log into any account without knowing the password by exploiting a buffer overrun with passwords longer than eight characters. This flaw was confirmed by the Rootshell security team and could be exploited using modified ICQ clones. (opennet.ru)
Researchers calculated the economic complexity of the Roman Empire using Latin inscriptions from the LIST dataset, which includes spatial and textual data. They analyzed funerary and honorific inscriptions to infer economic development and social structures of the period. (michelecoscia.com)
Researchers from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem have developed BioPykrete, an ice-based material that is ten times stronger than regular ice and more energy-absorbent. The biodegradable material could be used for construction in cold regions, reducing environmental impact compared to traditional building materials. (sciencealert.com)
The CGPM has adopted a resolution to ensure the ongoing technical actions necessary for the continuity of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC). This involves international collaboration to maintain the accuracy and stability of time measurement standards globally. (bipm.org)
Fortran celebrates its 70th anniversary on October 15, recognizing its vital role in scientific computing for fields like climate and materials science. An event at the Science and Industry Museum in Manchester will feature retrospectives, discussions, and demonstrations to honor its legacy and future. (fortran-lang.org)
Hawaii Volcanoes National Park features an 8-mile-long fissure called the Great Crack, which is difficult to access and poorly documented. Despite its size and depth, the crack remains largely unexplored and lacks official trails or detailed information. (sfgate.com)
The Simons Foundation has launched a $15 million initiative to assist mathematicians in adapting to the AI era. The effort aims to foster collaboration and develop resources for researchers navigating artificial intelligence advancements. (simonsfoundation.org)
A new alpine flower with sticky traps has confirmed Darwin's prediction of carnivorous plants over 150 years ago. The plant uses its sticky surfaces to capture insects for nutrition. (phys.org)
Scientists discovered that Haast's eagle, the largest bird of prey, hunted large prey like the moa by using its vulture-like features to eat insides immediately after attacking. Its unique body shape evolved to tackle prey too heavy for other raptors, combining eagle talons with vulture adaptations. (nhm.ac.uk)
Apple designed a graphite pipe through the iPhone Duo's hinge to help dissipate heat. This innovative cooling method aims to improve device performance and longevity. (pcmag.com)
BeBox is a Haiku application that emulates the Be Inc.'s BeBox hardware, focusing on PowerPC and Hobbit architectures. The project is open source and available on GitHub with a small community of contributors. (github.com)
E Ink has introduced the Kaleido 4, the latest version of its color ePaper platform. The new platform enhances color display capabilities for ePaper devices. (eink.com)
Elevation Lab offers a variety of AirTag mounts, cases, and accessories designed for different uses, including security, pets, bikes, and everyday items. They also provide a 10-year battery option for AirTags and other desk accessories. (elevationlab.com)
![Earbuds Don't Have to Be Disposable - Fairbuds 2 (iFixit 10/10) [video]](https://hntoday.pixelshot.io/screenshots/20261016/ebba2f5d50eb4935_tn.jpeg)
Fairbuds 2 earbuds are designed to be reusable and environmentally friendly, challenging the disposable trend. iFixit awarded the product a perfect 10/10 for its repairability and sustainability features. (youtube.com)
The film 'The Odyssey' was shot using traditional film stock, which is now rarely produced. Kodak is the only remaining company manufacturing this type of film. (nytimes.com)
A Garmin 'MCP' is a custom device or software modification designed to enhance or replicate Garmin's existing functionality. The project involves creating a personalized control panel or interface for Garmin devices. (jackantico.io)
Nvidia launched its first GPU, the GeForce 256, marking a significant advancement in graphics technology. This development set the stage for modern graphics processing units used in gaming and professional applications. (dfarq.homeip.net)
Meta will implement a policy starting October 30 that requires business accounts to give consent for Meta to scrape their websites. This change allows Meta to collect data from news sites as part of its operations. (niemanlab.org)
MS Paint has added a new feature that allows freeform rotation of images. The update is part of the Windows 11 Insider Preview build 28020.1619 for the canary channel. (blogs.windows.com)
Self-hosting has been a long-standing interest for the author, who previously ran a website from a Linux server and used media servers like MythTV and Kodi. They now rely on self-hosted services such as Jellyfin to avoid cloud dependence and retain control over their digital environment. (viceconsole.fyi)
Sill allows users to view any window from their Mac on their iPhone or iPad, supporting touch, Apple Pencil, trackpad, and keyboard input. It is a free, open-source project that operates without servers and is compatible with Apple devices. (github.com)
Chromium development at Google and Igalia involves different approaches to browser engine contributions. Google primarily develops Chromium in-house, while Igalia is an external company contributing to the project through open collaboration. (lwn.net)
Deno is joining Cloudflare, winding down its runtime over the next year, and merging its technology into Cloudflare's infrastructure. Although Deno never gained widespread production use, it pressured the Node ecosystem to adopt features like web-standard APIs and TypeScript support. (vlt.io)
Flipflop is an open-source project that creates persistent tunnels for filesharing using Iroh technology. It aims to facilitate secure and reliable file sharing in physical spaces. (github.com)
The Gentoo Linux distribution is discontinuing its Chromium browser package. This decision marks the end of official support for Chromium within Gentoo's repositories. (lwn.net)
A woman who rescued an injured crow receives repeated 'thank-you' gifts from the birds. The video highlights the unique bond between humans and animals. (youtube.com)
Biscoff cookies were initially meant to be a temporary offering but gained popularity among passengers, leading to their continued production. The cookies became a beloved staple, transforming their status from temporary to permanent. (seriouseats.com)
New York City plans to ban horse-drawn carriages, ending an iconic tradition. The move aims to improve animal welfare and modernize the city's transportation image. (cnn.com)
Residents in rural Argentina communicate by sending messages over AM radio, which are broadcast during specific programs. This system acts as an early form of social networking, connecting isolated communities without internet or cellphone access. (newyorker.com)
Speculative sauropods are imagined dinosaurs created for scientific and artistic exploration, with examples dating back to Dougal Dixon's 1988 book. These creatures often feature exaggerated features like trunks or unique adaptations not seen in real fossils. (svpow.com)
Indigene is an open-source app that provides information on native plants, wildlife, and regions using public data. It aims to support ecological awareness and conservation efforts. (indigene.app)
Participation in key social activities by Americans has declined significantly from 1995 to 2026, with double-digit drops in activities like attending classes and entertaining at home. Surveys indicate a sharp decrease in Americans' social engagement over the past three decades, contributing to rising loneliness and social isolation. (dataforprogress.org)
Travel clocks are vintage timepieces designed for portability and durability, often featuring mechanical movements and classic designs. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and craftsmanship, offering a unique alternative to modern digital clocks. (acollectedman.com)
Software rendering in DOS games like Quake produces sharp, gritty visuals with crisp textures and visible color banding, offering a distinct aesthetic. Running these renderers on modern hardware allows for high resolutions and smooth frame rates, preserving the original look and feel of classic games. (jamesfmackenzie.com)
Folders is a programming language based on creating nested folder structures. It uses directory hierarchies to represent code and logic visually. (danieltemkin.com)
A new Wayland desktop environment for Linux features skeuomorphic design elements, aiming to improve user interface familiarity. The project is hosted on GitHub with ongoing development and community support. (github.com)
Withings has introduced a $99 annual fee for new users to sync their devices with Apple Health. The change may have been implemented without Apple's prior notice, potentially affecting Withings' sales channels. (support.withings.com)
Articulated buses use a pivot joint near the middle to allow the vehicle to bend, increasing passenger capacity without adding height. This engineering feat involves clever design to ensure stability and maneuverability, especially for rear-engine models. (theautopian.com)
Order of the Sinking Star, a complex puzzle game from Thekla Inc., is estimated to take around 500 hours to complete. Its intricate design and numerous secrets make it an exhausting yet potentially rewarding experience for dedicated players. (polygon.com)
Getting cancer requires persistent scheduling, thorough research, and proactive follow-up with doctors. Consulting multiple specialists and utilizing AI tools can help patients navigate treatment options and gather important information. (jjmaxwell4.com)
Radioactive monazite ore contains rare earth elements that China currently dominates in extraction and processing. Developing alternative sources like monazite could reduce China's influence over the global rare earth supply chain. (spectrum.ieee.org)
Today's best Hacker News stories, summarized and screenshotted, one email a day.