Innovabble

Prepare to be amazed (and amused) by the latest innovation in the world of integrated circuits! German TechTuber Matthias ‘bitluni’ Balwierz has designed a one-of-a-kind ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), but this one isn't your typical chip. Forget about processing power or complex calculations – this ASIC has a delightfully mischievous purpose: it Rickrolls you! That's right! This ASIC, when plugged into a display adapter, delivers an instant Rick Astley dance party. It achieves this by storing a basic Rickroll animation—a 32x32 pixel marvel encoded in 512 bytes—essentially acting like a tiny, permanent ROM chip. Think of it like a silicon music video player, forever stuck on Rick Astley's greatest hit. Bitluni's ingenious prank wouldn't have been possible without the Tiny Tapeout Program. He snuck his Rickroll project in alongside some more serious designs for Matt Venn's Tiny Tapeout 2 (TT2). This program allows multiple designers to share space on a single Large-Scale Integration (LSI) chip, making chip creation more accessible. TT2 offered a real estate bonanza of 165 individual design slots for contributors. Imagine the bewildered delight of someone plugging this unassuming chip into a monitor, only to be greeted by the classic Rick Astley dance moves. It's a prank guaranteed to tickle the funny bone of any techie with a good sense of humor. So, the next time you're brainstorming a playful way to surprise your tech-loving friends, remember Bitluni's ASIC. It's never gonna give you up, never gonna let you down, and it'll always put a smile on your face! Now, over to you! Have you encountered any other creative tech pranks that utilize technology's power (or limitations)? Share your stories in the comments—let's see the most ingenious and hilarious tech-based pranks out there. https://www.theregister.com/2024/04/01/rickroll_meme_asic/ https://www.tomshardware.com/maker-stem/rickroll-asic-heralded-as-a-world-first-this-chip-is-never-gonna-let-you-down https://www.hackster.io/news/custom-asic-contains-the-world-s-first-rickroll-in-silicon-823504a26f68 Image: Luligu | Dreamstime.com Screenshot: Matthias ‘bitluni’ Balwierz

Calling all lifelong learners! Spotify is stepping up its game with its 'Courses' feature, currently undergoing testing with UK users. This exciting feature goes beyond music and podcasts, offering a variety of video-based courses conveniently integrated within the familiar Spotify interface. Here's the scoop: Diverse Course Catalog: Spotify is partnering with educational powerhouses like BBC Maestro, Skillshare, and PlayVirtuoso. This collaboration allows them to offer high-quality content catering to a wide range of interests, from music production and business skills to fostering creativity. This caters to the strong interest in learning demonstrated by Spotify users, with nearly half of Premium subscribers engaging in education or self-help-themed podcasts Learning on-the-go: Imagine honing your music production skills or brushing up on Excel while you're commuting or doing chores. Spotify's seamless integration makes learning convenient and accessible. New Learning Avenue & Audience Reach: This feature not only provides Spotify users with a new avenue for learning, but also offers educational creators a powerful new way to reach learners. This could potentially broaden the accessibility and engagement of quality education within the e-learning landscape. This is currently a test feature available only in the UK, and there's no guarantee yet that it'll get a wider or more permanent launch. However, if you're in the UK and curious to find out more about the courses and try them out for yourself here. What do you think? Would you be interested in learning new skills through Spotify? Image: Btseries | Dreamstime.com https://newsroom.spotify.com/2024-03-25/spotify-tests-video-based-learning-courses-in-the-uk/ https://techcrunch.com/2024/03/25/spotify-courses-learning/ https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/25/24110545/spotify-online-courses-learning-video-test-uk-skillshare-bbc-maestro-playvirtuoso

In the spirit of Global Recycling Day, which just passed, Barilla has teamed up with decluttering guru Marie Kondo to launch a new initiative – 'Secondhand Box with Marie Kondo'. This clever campaign centers around giving your leftover Barilla pasta boxes a whole new purpose – using them as eco-friendly packaging to ship clothes when you sell them on secondhand platforms. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainable living by reducing waste, but it also aligns perfectly with Marie Kondo's philosophy of sparking joy by tidying up your home. So next time you're whipping up a delicious Barilla pasta dish, think twice before tossing the box! With a little creativity inspired by Marie Kondo's magic touch, it can become the perfect storage solution for your pre-loved clothes, ready to find a new home. Let's get the conversation going...who else has discovered clever ways to reuse Barilla boxes? Share your tips and tricks in the comments below! https://www.adsoftheworld.com/campaigns/secondhand-box-with-marie-kondo Image: LePub

Heads are turning (and eyebrows are raising) thanks to Balenciaga's latest accessory! This quirky piece, dubbed the 'Gaffer Bangle,' made its debut at Paris Fashion Week as part of their Fall/Winter 2024 collection. Yep, it's exactly what it sounds like — a bracelet (if you can call it that) resembling a roll of clear Scotch tape, complete with the Balenciaga logo. Now, Balenciaga isn't shy about pushing fashion boundaries, but this one has sparked some serious debate. The price tag for this designer "tape"? A cool $3,300! Is it high fashion or a high-priced prank? The internet is divided. Some see it as a satirical jab at consumerism and the luxury fashion world, while others think it's just plain ridiculous. On TikTok, @highsnobiety's video asking "Would you wear this?" has gone viral, sparking a heated debate with almost 8,000 comments. So what are your thoughts? Is the Balenciaga 'Gaffer Bangle' a fashion must-have or a major miss? Well, it might not be for everyone's taste (or budget!), but I guess it gets the creative juices flowing. Maybe it'll inspire you to dig into your own hardware drawer and unleash your inner DIY fashionista? After all, a little creativity can go a long way (and save you a few thousand bucks). Images: Screenshots from highsnobiety/TikTok https://metro.co.uk/2024/03/08/balenciagas-new-accessory-essentially-a-2-household-item-20425870/ https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/fashion/balenciaga-tape-bracelet-tiktok-b2507667.html https://www.straitstimes.com/world/europe/balenciaga-s-at-it-again-this-time-it-s-a-4400-scotch-tape-bracelet

In a significant development in the retail sector, Dollar Tree, the parent company of Family Dollar, has announced plans to close approximately 1,000 stores under both the Family Dollar and Dollar Tree brands over the next several years. The decision, which was revealed recently, includes the closure of 600 Family Dollar stores in the first half of 2024. An additional 370 Family Dollar stores are slated for closure over the next few years as store leases expire. Dollar Tree will also be closing 30 stores as leases expire. This move is seen as a response to various factors including market conditions, store performance, and other undisclosed factors. The announcement has sent shockwaves through the retail industry, with the company’s shares falling as much as 13% in Wednesday trading. The company also posted financial results that missed analysts’ expectations, including a net loss of more than $1.7 billion for the fourth quarter. This has raised concerns among investors and industry watchers about the future of the company and the retail sector at large. https://www.cnn.com/2024/03/13/investing/family-dollar-dollar-tree-closing-stores https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2024-03-13/dollar-tree-to-close-1-000-stores-in-bid-to-shore-up-profits https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2024/03/13/dollar-general-dollar-tree-store-closures/ Image: Tupungato | Dreamstime.com

Ever since the unveiling of 'Digital Marilyn' at SXSW, the social media has been buzzing with mixed reactions. This isn't your average AI though – it's a creation by Soul Machines, a company known for its "Digital People" technology. Here's the key feature: 'Digital Marilyn' can hold conversations that mimic human emotions and adapt responses in real-time, thanks to powerful AI technology. It feels like sci-fi come to life! But not everyone is on board with this. There are those who are raising ethical concerns. They argue that Marilyn Monroe herself never consented to this digital persona, and it's not really her intelligence or soul interacting with fans. This brings us to the question - just because we can do something with technology, does it mean we should? Then there's the Hollywood actor's strike over the use of AI in performances. The industry is clearly grappling with the implications of this technology. As we move forward, it's crucial to strike a balance between technological advancement and ethical considerations. And let's not forget about the fans. For them, this could be a whole new way to connect with their favorite icon. But is this really what Marilyn would have wanted? And how does this affect her legacy? The unveiling of Digital Marilyn has opened up a Pandora's box of questions and debates. It's a fascinating glimpse into the future, but it's also a reminder that with great power comes great responsibility. The creators, Soul Machines, have certainly given us a lot to think about. What are your thoughts on this? https://ew.com/marilyn-monroe-ai-chatbot-exploits-her-legacy-8606797 https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/general-news/marilyn-monroe-ai-backlash-digital-marilyn-1235846845/ https://soulmachines.medium.com/digital-marilyn-stepping-into-the-ai-spotlight-with-the-magic-of-biological-ai-15778d8492ed Image: Soul Machines

Just when we thought movie promotions couldn’t get any more exciting, Jack Black raises the bar! The recent viral video featuring Black and with his Tenacious D bandmate Kyle Gass and his Kung Fu Panda castmates showcases the creativity and innovation in movie promotions today, albeit in an unexpected way. In the video, Black, who voices Po in the Kung Fu Panda series, performs a rendition of Britney Spears’ 'Baby One More Time' alongside his castmates. The video was filmed at the world premiere of Kung Fu Panda 4 and features Awkwafina and Ke Huy Quan, among others. While not specifically a promotion for the movie, this unique approach not only entertained viewers but also coincided with the movie’s release, adding to the buzz around it. This got me thinking about other creative promotions that have caught our attention. From intriguing teaser videos to detailed explainer videos and behind-the-scenes glimpses, promotions are evolving to capture viewers’ attention in new and exciting ways. What other innovative and unexpected promos have you come across recently? Share them here! And do you also think they’re more effective than traditional marketing? Image: Dreamworks Animation

Meta just released a cool update for Quest 2 and Pro users, making virtual reality even more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience. This exciting v63 software update packs two major features: lying down mode and Quest Cash. Relax and Experience VR Like Never Before: The long-awaited lying down mode is a dream come true for many VR enthusiasts. This feature allows you to ditch the traditional seated position and instead explore virtual worlds, catch up with friends in social spaces, or even attend immersive concerts – all from the comfort of your bed or couch. This is especially beneficial for individuals with limited mobility, those seeking a more relaxed VR experience, or simply anyone who wants to unwind and explore in a new way. Quest Cash: Seamless In-VR Purchases: The update also introduces Quest Cash, a new in-headset currency that takes the hassle out of purchasing VR content. No more fumbling for your credit card or external devices! With Quest Cash, you can easily browse and purchase games and apps directly within the VR environment, streamlining your experience and making VR content more accessible to everyone. This innovative feature removes barriers for new users and enthusiasts who might not have readily available payment methods. Expanding the Reach of VR: These updates represent a significant step forward for VR accessibility and user experience. The lying down mode caters to a wider audience, including those with physical limitations, while Quest Cash simplifies content purchase for everyone. By making VR more comfortable, convenient, and accessible, Meta is paving the way for a more inclusive and engaging virtual world for all. So, how will you be using the new lying-down mode? What other features are you hoping to see in the future? https://mixed-news.com/en/how-chill-is-this-now-you-can-use-quest-while-lying-down/ https://www.theverge.com/2024/3/5/24091529/meta-quest-2-pro-update-lay-down-quest-cash-payment Image: Meta

Hollywood star Cate Blanchett has just stepped into the world of sake as the new Creative Director for Toku Saké. With her deep appreciation for Japanese craftsmanship and those joy-filled nights sharing sake, it sounds like she's bringing a whole lot of passion (and maybe a touch of Hollywood glam?) to this traditional drink. Renowned for its delicate notes and rich finish, Toku Saké is also embracing environmental stewardship by planting a mangrove for each bottle sold to celebrate this partnership. How do you think Cate Blanchett's involvement will elevate the brand's profile and impact its global appeal? https://www.thedrinksbusiness.com/2024/02/hollywood-star-cate-blanchett-joins-toku-sake-as-creative-director/

Hey Trekkies! Ever wondered about the design saga behind every USS Enterprise? From the iconic original to the sleek iterations in 'Picard' and 'Star Trek Online,' each version has its own story, balancing classic silhouettes with new-age aesthetics. Whether it's the saucer section, secondary hull, or those unmistakable nacelles, see how these starships evolved while staying true to Matt Jefferies' unforgettable design. Perfect for a deep dive into Star Trek lore and a great conversation starter for all of us who've dreamed of captaining our own Enterprise. Which is your favourite design? https://www.cbr.com/star-trek-enterprise-design-explained/

Everton FC is bidding a creative farewell to Goodison Park, their home for over a century, with a special campaign inspired by the stadium's iconic Goodison Road entrance. This unique artwork celebrates 13 decades of memories, achievements, and the unwavering spirit of Evertonians. It will feature across club campaigns, merchandise, and even within the stadium, marking the final season at Goodison with a blend of history and modern design. The initiative also includes a video detailing the concept's origins and its significance, ensuring the legacy of Goodison Park lives on as Everton moves towards a new chapter. A truly heartfelt tribute to a place steeped in football lore. Fans, what are your thoughts on this nostalgic nod to Everton's history? https://www.evertonfc.com/goodison-park-1892-2025

The Global Creative Competition's 2024 edition spotlighted the creativity of medical students worldwide, focusing on the theme 'Healthy Planet Healthy People.' Hosted by the University of Leeds and Imperial College London, the competition drew entries globally, emphasizing the critical intersection of sustainability and health. Highlights include Elen Evans' 'Polluted Playgrounds,' showcasing the environmental impacts on health. This competition not only celebrates creative talent but also emphasizes the importance of integrating sustainability into medical education and practice. Be sure to check out the winning works here. https://www.imperial.ac.uk/news/251438/global-creative-competition-crowns-2024-winners/

Have you seen the latest trend hitting a Chinese museum? It's all about turning traditional art into something a bit more... cuddly. Picture this: a chubby, grinning loong (that's a Chinese dragon) toy, inspired by a Ming Dynasty gold ornament. These little guys are flying off the shelves, with over 1,000 sold in just the first week of their debut. It's the brainchild of a team of 12 young designers, breathing new life into museum souvenirs and making cultural heritage hits among the youth. This fresh take is not just about cute toys; it's changing the game for museum revenue and how young folks engage with history. What do you think about this blend of history and modern design? Check out the full scoop here.

Creatives, this podcast is for you. 'Adventures In Design' is a daily show where you can hear from other creatives about their work, their challenges, and their joys. It’s always entertaining, informative, and inspiring. Listen here.

Disney's diving into the gaming world big time with a $1.5bn partnership with Epic Games, the brains behind Fortnite. They're planning to create a whole new "games and entertainment universe" that'll bring together Disney's biggest franchises like Pixar, Marvel, and Star Wars with Fortnite's massive platform. It's a huge move for Disney, aiming to expand its empire into the gaming universe and bring us something epic. Imagine the crossovers we could see! What do you guys think this means for the future of gaming and entertainment? Thoughts on seeing Mickey going head-to-head with Fortnite characters?