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Wednesday, July 12, 2023

July 12, 2023

Unleash Your Style and Performance with Nike Tech Fleece: Where Fashion Meets Function

 Introduction :



When it comes to athletic apparel that seamlessly blends fashion and function, Nike has consistently been at the forefront. Among their standout offerings, Nike Tech Fleece has emerged as a game-changer. With its innovative design, comfort, and versatility, Nike Tech Fleece has captured the attention of style-conscious athletes and fashion enthusiasts alike. In this article, we dive into the world of Nike Tech Fleece, exploring its cutting-edge features, trendy appeal, and how it revolutionizes both performance and streetwear fashion.

  1. Unparalleled Comfort and Lightweight Warmth : Imagine wrapping yourself in a cloud of unparalleled comfort that still keeps you warm and cozy during chilly days. That's exactly what Nike Tech Fleece offers. Crafted with advanced materials, this revolutionary fabric combines a soft and lightweight feel with exceptional warmth. The result? A perfect balance of comfort and insulation, allowing you to move freely while staying cozy in any weather.


  3. Sleek and Streamlined Silhouette :

  4. Gone are the days when style had to be compromised for functionality. Nike Tech Fleece boasts a sleek and streamlined silhouette that elevates your look, whether you're hitting the gym or strolling through the city streets. The clean lines and modern design exude an air of sophistication, making a bold statement wherever you go.


  6. Breathability and Moisture Management :

  7. Don't let sweat hinder your performance or dampen your style. Nike Tech Fleece incorporates advanced moisture-wicking properties, ensuring excellent breathability and moisture management. Say goodbye to discomfort caused by perspiration, as this high-performance fabric keeps you dry and comfortable, no matter how intense your workout or daily routine may be.

  8. Versatility for Every Occasion : Nike Tech Fleece effortlessly transitions from athletic wear to streetwear, allowing you to showcase your style in any setting. Whether you pair it with your favorite sneakers for a casual look or dress it up with boots and accessories, this versatile apparel collection offers endless possibilities to express your individuality.


  10. Cutting-Edge Design and Trendsetting Colors : Nike Tech Fleece is not just about performance; it's also about making a fashion statement. With its cutting-edge design and trendsetting colors, this collection stands out from the crowd. From classic neutrals to vibrant hues, there's a color palette to suit every taste and mood. Embrace your personal style and turn heads with the fashion-forward aesthetics of Nike Tech Fleece.

Conclusion : Nike Tech Fleece is a game-changer in the world of athletic apparel, offering a perfect fusion of style and performance. With its unparalleled comfort, sleek silhouette, breathability, and versatility, it has become a must-have for those who seek the best of both worlds. Whether you're an athlete striving for peak performance or a fashion enthusiast looking to make a statement, Nike Tech Fleece delivers on all fronts. Step into the future of activewear and embrace the innovation, comfort, and style that Nike Tech Fleece has to offer. Unleash your potential and redefine what it means to be fashionable, both on and off the field.

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July 12, 2023

Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg - A Timeless Classic Revisited

 Introduction :

In the realm of video games, certain titles hold a special place in the hearts of players, transcending time and captivating generations of gamers. One such gem is Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg. Originally released in 1997 by Gust Co. Ltd., this enchanting role-playing game (RPG) has recently gained renewed attention and admiration from both longtime fans and newcomers to the franchise. In this article, we explore the allure of Atelier Marie, delve into its unique gameplay mechanics, and highlight why it continues to resonate with players even after all these years.

Gameplay Mechanics and Alchemy : Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg revolves around the protagonist, Marie, as she embarks on a captivating journey of alchemy in the fictional town of Salburg. One of the defining aspects of the game is its intricate alchemy system. Players assume the role of Marie, a novice alchemist, and must gather ingredients, mix them in various combinations, and carefully manage time and resources to create powerful potions, items, and weapons.

The alchemy system in Atelier Marie is both intuitive and rewarding. Players must experiment with different ingredient combinations, take note of the quality of ingredients used, and consider external factors such as the time of day, weather, and even the moon phase to produce the best possible results. The sense of discovery and experimentation in alchemy adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, making each decision and outcome feel meaningful.

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Story and Characters : While alchemy forms the core gameplay mechanic, Atelier Marie also weaves an engaging narrative filled with charming characters. The game introduces players to Marie, a determined young alchemist eager to prove her skills and help her struggling workshop thrive. As Marie interacts with various townsfolk and fellow alchemists, players uncover personal stories, forge friendships, and undertake quests that shape the outcome of the game.

The character development in Atelier Marie is a standout feature, as each individual possesses unique personalities, motivations, and aspirations. Players form emotional connections with the characters, cheering them on in their personal journeys. The game beautifully captures the essence of personal growth, perseverance, and the power of human connection.

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Visuals and Music : Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg boasts a visually stunning art style that exudes a whimsical and fantastical atmosphere. The hand-drawn 2D sprites and vibrant backgrounds bring the game world to life, immersing players in a visually captivating experience. The attention to detail in character designs, environments, and item illustrations further adds to the game's charm.

Accompanying the visual beauty is a delightful soundtrack that enhances the overall immersion. The music ranges from soothing melodies during exploration to thrilling compositions during intense moments. The enchanting melodies stay with players long after they have put down the controller, creating a lasting emotional connection to the game.

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Legacy and Impact : After more than two decades, Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry. Its innovative alchemy system and engaging narrative set the foundation for the long-running Atelier series, captivating players through subsequent installments. The game's enduring popularity speaks to its timeless appeal and the way it continues to resonate with fans.

Furthermore, Atelier Marie's influence can be seen in other RPGs that incorporate alchemy as a core gameplay element. Its success has paved the way for similar games to explore the joys of item crafting, experimentation, and strategic resource management. The game's legacy can be observed in the passionate fanbase it has cultivated over the years and the numerous accolades it has received.

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Conclusion : Atelier Marie: The Alchemist of Salburg is a game that has stood the test of time, enchanting players with its captivating gameplay mechanics, engaging characters, and visual charm. Its legacy and impact on the RPG genre are undeniable, inspiring subsequent titles and creating a devoted fanbase. Whether revisiting this timeless classic or discovering it for the first time, Atelier Marie continues to capture the hearts of players, reminding us of the enduring magic that can be found in gaming experiences.

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Tuesday, July 11, 2023

July 11, 2023

Exploring the Top Pros and Cons of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence

Introduction
Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) have revolutionized numerous industries, bringing forth unprecedented advancements in technology and shaping our daily lives. With their ability to process vast amounts of data and make intelligent decisions, ML and AI have become essential tools for businesses, researchers, and individuals alike. 

However, like any powerful tool, there are both pros and cons associated with their use. In this article, we will delve into the top pros and cons of machine learning and artificial intelligence, shedding light on their impact on society, ethics, privacy, and more. Pros of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Automation and Efficiency: Machine Learning and AI technologies excel at automating repetitive and mundane tasks. 

This efficiency saves time and resources for individuals and businesses alike. It allows organizations to streamline processes, optimize operations, and enhance productivity. With ML and AI, tasks that previously required human intervention can now be performed at a fraction of the time, leading to increased efficiency and effectiveness.

 Improved Decision-Making: ML and AI systems can analyze vast amounts of data quickly, uncovering patterns and insights that humans may overlook. This ability enables more informed decision-making across various domains, such as finance, healthcare, and marketing. AI algorithms can process and interpret complex data sets, providing valuable predictions and recommendations that can lead to better outcomes and strategies. 

 Personalization and Customer Experience: ML and AI have revolutionized the way businesses interact with their customers. By analyzing customer data, preferences, and behavior patterns, ML algorithms can personalize user experiences, tailor recommendations, and deliver targeted marketing campaigns. This level of personalization improves customer satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately driving business growth. Enhanced Healthcare: Machine Learning and AI have made significant strides in the healthcare industry. From medical imaging analysis to personalized treatment plans, ML algorithms can assist healthcare professionals in diagnosing diseases, predicting patient outcomes, and suggesting appropriate interventions. 

Additionally, AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are improving access to medical information and support, especially in remote areas. Advancements in Research and Development: ML and AI have expedited advancements in various fields of research. From climate modeling to drug discovery, these technologies enable scientists to analyze vast amounts of data, identify patterns, and make accurate predictions. This accelerated research and development have the potential to revolutionize industries, solve complex problems, and push the boundaries of human knowledge. Cons of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence Job Displacement and Economic Impact: As ML and AI automate tasks previously performed by humans, there is a concern over job displacement. 

Many traditional roles may become redundant or drastically transformed. While new job opportunities may emerge in fields related to ML and AI, the transition may result in short-term unemployment and the need for upskilling or reskilling. The economic impact of this transition can be significant, requiring policies and strategies to address potential inequalities and ensure a smooth transition. Ethical Considerations: The rise of ML and AI raises important ethical questions. AI systems are only as unbiased as the data they are trained on. If the data used to train ML algorithms is biased or reflects existing societal prejudices, the algorithms may perpetuate and amplify these biases, leading to unfair or discriminatory outcomes. 

Ensuring ethical practices and diverse representation in the development and deployment of ML and AI systems is crucial to avoid unintended negative consequences. Data Privacy and Security: ML and AI systems rely on vast amounts of data to make accurate predictions and decisions. This reliance on data raises concerns about privacy and security. Organizations must handle sensitive data responsibly, ensuring proper encryption, storage, and access controls. 

Additionally, there is a risk of data breaches or unauthorized access, which could lead to the misuse of personal information and potential harm to individuals. Lack of Transparency and Explainability: Deep learning models, a subset of ML, often operate as "black boxes." They can provide accurate predictions, but it is challenging to understand how and why they arrived at those conclusions. This lack of transparency and explainability can hinder trust and limit their adoption in critical applications such as healthcare and finance.

 Efforts are underway to develop interpretable ML models and establish frameworks for explaining the decision-making process of AI systems. Overreliance and Dependence: Overreliance on ML and AI systems without human oversight can lead to complacency and potential risks. 

These systems are not infallible and can make mistakes. It is crucial to maintain human control and supervision to ensure the accuracy, fairness, and ethical considerations in the decisions made by ML and AI algorithms. Striking the right balance between automation and human intervention is essential. 

 Conclusion

 Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence have tremendous potential to reshape our world, revolutionizing industries and improving our lives. The automation, efficiency, and decision-making capabilities of ML and AI bring numerous benefits, from streamlining processes to advancing research and development. However, it is crucial to acknowledge and address the cons associated with these technologies, such as job displacement, ethical considerations, and privacy concerns. By understanding the pros and cons, we can harness the power of ML and AI responsibly, ensuring they serve as tools for positive change while mitigating potential risks.
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Monday, July 10, 2023

July 10, 2023

The Top Uses of Artificial Intelligence: Transforming Industries and Empowering Innovation

Introduction Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a revolutionary technology, reshaping various sectors and revolutionizing the way we live and work. With its ability to mimic human intelligence and make sense of vast amounts of data, AI is driving transformative change across industries. From healthcare to finance, transportation to education, AI is unlocking new possibilities and empowering innovation. In this article, we will explore some of the top uses of artificial intelligence and how they are transforming our world. 

Healthcare AI is revolutionizing healthcare by enabling faster and more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatment plans, and efficient drug discovery. Machine learning algorithms can analyze medical images, such as X-rays and MRIs, to detect abnormalities and assist radiologists in making more precise diagnoses. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are also being utilized to provide patients with round-the-clock support and answer their health-related queries. Moreover, AI is transforming the field of genomics by analyzing vast genomic datasets to identify disease patterns and genetic markers. 

This knowledge is instrumental in developing targeted therapies and personalized medicine. By leveraging AI, healthcare providers can improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and enhance overall healthcare delivery. Finance The finance industry is leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences, detect fraud, and improve risk management. AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants are revolutionizing customer service by providing personalized recommendations, assisting with financial planning, and answering inquiries promptly. Natural language processing enables these virtual assistants to understand and respond to customer queries in real-time. Furthermore, AI algorithms are adept at analyzing vast amounts of financial data to detect patterns and anomalies indicative of fraudulent activities. By leveraging machine learning, financial institutions can identify and mitigate risks swiftly, safeguarding the interests of customers and businesses alike. AI also plays a crucial role in algorithmic trading, where it can analyze market trends and make high-frequency trades with minimal human intervention.

Transportation The transportation industry is experiencing a paradigm shift with the integration of AI technologies. Self-driving cars, powered by AI algorithms, are paving the way for a safer and more efficient future of transportation. These autonomous vehicles use sensors and cameras to perceive the environment, make real-time decisions, and navigate through traffic. By eliminating human errors, AI-powered vehicles have the potential to reduce accidents and congestion on the roads. AI is also being harnessed in logistics and supply chain management to optimize routes, predict demand, and streamline operations. 

Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data, including historical shipping patterns and weather conditions, to make accurate delivery predictions and optimize transportation networks. This enables businesses to minimize costs, reduce delivery times, and enhance customer satisfaction. Education In the field of education, AI is transforming the learning experience for students and teachers alike. Intelligent tutoring systems leverage AI to provide personalized learning paths and adapt the curriculum based on each student's strengths and weaknesses. By analyzing student performance data, AI algorithms can identify areas where students struggle and provide targeted interventions, fostering individualized learning. AI-powered educational platforms and chatbots assist students in finding relevant study materials, answering queries, and providing real-time feedback. Natural language processing enables these systems to understand student inquiries and respond with accurate and helpful information. Additionally, AI is being utilized in automated grading systems, reducing the burden on teachers and enabling faster and more objective assessment of assignments and exams. Retail The retail industry is leveraging AI to enhance customer experiences, optimize inventory management, and personalize marketing strategies. 

AI-powered recommendation systems analyze customer data to provide personalized product recommendations, enhancing customer satisfaction and driving sales. By understanding individual preferences, these systems can create tailored shopping experiences that cater to each customer's unique tastes and preferences. AI is also being utilized in inventory management to optimize stocking levels, predict demand, and reduce wastage. Machine learning algorithms can analyze historical sales data, external factors such as weather patterns, and social media trends to make accurate demand forecasts. This enables retailers to streamline their supply chain, reduce costs, and minimize stockouts or overstocking situations. 

 Conclusion 

 Artificial intelligence is transforming industries across the globe, revolutionizing the way we live and work. From healthcare to finance, transportation to education, AI is enabling faster and more accurate decision-making, enhancing customer experiences, and unlocking new possibilities for innovation. As AI continues to advance, its impact will only continue to grow, reshaping industries and empowering us to create a better future. By harnessing the power of AI responsibly, we can leverage its potential to address complex challenges and drive positive change in various sectors.
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Saturday, February 3, 2018

February 03, 2018

Why Apple doesn't need to sell more iPhones anymore


There's a common misunderstanding that if a company doesn't sell more of something, it means the product is a failure.


Case in point: iPhone sales fell year-over-year, and because of it, people trotted back out the same old tired narrative that Apple is doomed...again. But for real this time! They claim the iPhone X is a failure because $1,000 is simply too expensive for a phone!


But this narrative couldn't be further from the truth. Apple doesn't need to sell a higher number of iPhones at lower prices in order to continue smashing revenue records and stomp out all the competition.

Fixating on a tiny drop in iPhone sales misses the bigger picture: Apple wants to sell additional hardware and services — Apple Watch, AirPods, iCloud, HomePod, Apple Music, etc. — so that people are locked into the ecosystem that only works with the iPhone. Apple's long-term strategy isn't eternally selling more iPhones, but rather locking users into its growing ecosystem.

There are so many ways Apple could have sold more iPhones last quarter. For one, it could have offered fewer options. One of the best things about buying an iPhone used to be that it was so easy to choose the right model. There used to be one new iPhone released a year, and you either bought it or didn't.

But last fall, Apple did something unusual: It released three new iPhones (8, 8 Plus, and X) and made choosing one more complicated than it should have been.

The 8 and 8 Plus are excellent phones — they have the same A11 Bionic chip and 12-megapixel camera as the iPhone X — but Apple missed a big opportunity to unapologetically ditch the past and kickstart a "super cycle" that could've pushed more people to buy the iPhone X and all of its futuristic offerings (edge-to-edge display, Face ID, Animoji, etc.)

I'm sure there were good reasons why Apple released the 8 and 8 Plus — to hit a lower price, stave off potential OLED shortages for the iPhone X, and prevent a bigger drop in sales from users waiting until November for the iPhone X. But had Apple only offered the iPhone X, it's highly likely that a good chunk of an estimated 350 million existing iPhone users who are "in the window of opportunity to upgrade," according to GBH Insights, would have felt more compelled to because it's so clearly the only iPhone that matters.

Another obvious way Apple could have sold more iPhones would have been to sell the iPhone X at a lower price. I've defended why spending $1,000 on a phone isn't as ridiculous as it seems, but for many budget-strapped customers, it's just not within their means, even with a monthly payment plan.

I don't have a crystal ball into the future — maybe Apple will sell more iPhones this year if it lowers prices or releases a cheaper iPhone X,  or maybe it won't — but I can tell you one thing: It doesn't really matter if Apple doesn't sell more iPhones every quarter.

The smartphone market is extremely saturated with great choices across the entire price spectrum. You can buy a great smartphone for $150-200 (the Motorola G-series is great for if you're on a budget) or pick up the OnePlus 5T for $500.

With saturation comes natural decline. Global smartphone shipments declined 6.3 percent in Q4 2017 according to IDC. Everyone who needs a phone probably already has one. And with phone build quality getting better and better all the time, people are holding onto their phones longer (or getting battery replacements).

That said, none of these phones come with the kind of extended ecosystem that comes close to what Apple offers. This is an important advantage Apple has because it means it can offset iPhone sales with revenue from complementary devices and services.

It all comes down to: In Apple We Trust. This is what Apple's really selling.

"For us, it’s not the numbers. It’s customers satisfaction," Apple CEO Tim Cook said on the company's Q1 2018 earnings call. "Customer satisfaction is off the charts for iPhone X."

It's your typical halo effect. Think about it: Happy iPhone X customers are more likely to "drink the Kool-Aid" and purchase more Apple products that work with their phones, even when those products have shortcomings because they're expecting the same level of satisfaction from them.


It all comes down to: In Apple We Trust. This is what Apple's really selling.

Customer satisfaction is what drives iPhone users to buy AirPods for their iPhones and Apple Watches to slap onto their wrists. It also sells people on iCloud and Apple music subscriptions.

I know, because I'm one of the many very satisfied customers. Year after year, I surprise myself whenever I pay for Apple stuff that I felt were non-essential at first.

I got AirPods and love using them because they're truly a joy to use. I bought an Apple Watch just to get notifications on my wrist. I paid $50-something for Apple's official leather iPhone X case. I caved a few weeks ago and finally forked over money for iCloud to backup my iPhone X. 

I had plenty of alternatives for these extra purchases, but for every single one of them, they were largely driven by my iPhone. It's my most used device and it's the one I love using the most. I trust Apple's quality control (even when it messes up sometimes).

Instead of netting $1,150 from me on just my iPhone X, Apple roped me in for some $1,750 for all the aforementioned accessories and services. That's an extra $600 of revenue they made off me — nearly as much as an iPhone 8, which starts at $700.


Apple may not get everyone to buy an Apple Watch or AirPods with their iPhones immediately, but make no mistake, the idea's already been planted and it's just waiting to blossom. And there's a good chance it will.

Rather than sell more iPhones, Apple's playing the whole field, and squeezing more out of each customer through other products, and it seems to be working. On the earnings call, Cook said Apple Watch Series 3 were double that of Series 2 from a year ago. Though Apple doesn't break down how many units that is, it's still impressive.

It's hard to imagine Apple Watch would be doing as well if people weren't so happy with their iPhone purchases. After all, you need an iPhone in order to use Apple Watch. And if people hate their iPhones, why the heck would they like the Apple Watch?

Same goes for AirPods, Apple TV, Beats headphones, and all the other stuff that's lumped with Apple Watch in Apple's "Other" category. This category grew 36 percent year-over-year, raking in $5.5 billion.

And ditto for Services, which includes iCloud and App Store purchases, which was up 18 percent year-over-year.

Apple will continue to sell a lot of iPhones. Maybe not as many iPhones as it used to sell, but people will upgrade. Android owners may want to switch. There's still a lot of runway to grow iPhone sales.

But the future isn't a singular product. It's Apple's whole family of products. Building out reliable, trustworthy ecosystems that keep users deeply entrenched within the Apple sphere will be the gift that keeps on giving, so to speak. 

Samsung's employing a similar strategy with its Galaxy phones, Gear VR, Gear 360, Gear smartwatches, and Gear IconX wireless earbuds. And Google's also trying to do the same with its Pixel phones and Pixel Buds. But neither company's phones have the same kind of satisfaction ratings that would make you want to buy more of their other stuff.
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February 03, 2018

Tesla is setting up shop at 800 Home Depot stores

Tesla is going mainstream. No, not the electric cars.

Elon Musk is bringing his solar panels and Powerwall batteries to 800 Home Depot locations in the U.S., Bloomberg reported this week. That's a big boost for the venture, previously known as SolarCity. The products, also available for sale on Tesla's website, will now be exposed to more customers' eyes.



The dedicated spaces inside Home Depot stores will be Tesla-branded and be staffed by Tesla employees. In some retail locations, the large installations will include a visual demonstration of how the devices work. According to Bloomberg's report, the new areas will arrive the first half of the year.

Tesla's solar products aren't cheap. Installations can cost between $10,000 and $25,000, not including the $7,000 battery, according to Tesla’s website.

Lowe's, Home Depot's top competitor in the U.S., also is in discussions to sell Tesla solar products in store, Bloomberg reported. Tesla, Home Depot, and Lowe's all declined to comment to Bloomberg on the plans.

This isn't the first time Home Depot has partnered with the brand. Prior to Tesla acquiring SolarCity in 2016, the company had pop-up shops staffed with SolarCity employees in some Home Depot locations. But at that time, the stores didn't feature the actual products.

Meanwhile, Elon Musk is also selling flamethrowers.
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February 03, 2018

Bitcoin Fell Off a Cliff and No One Knows How Far It Is to the Bottom

 All good things must come to an end—and bad things, too. Bitcoin has had a hell of a ride over the last year, but that all seems to be over as almost 60 percent of its value has vanished in the last month. Enthusiasm in the cryptocurrency market is low as Bitcoin dropped below $8,000 for the first time since November.

According to the popular cryptocurrency app Coinbase, the price of Bitcoin slumped to $7,540 on Friday morning before picking up to around $9,000 a little before noon. The run of thousand-percent increases was never sustainable, and even the most dedicated believers in the cryptocurrency revolution didn’t think the high of almost $20,000 would hold in the short term. But the common belief among the community has been that $10,000 was as low as it would go. Irrational exuberance inevitably invites corrections, but it’s beginning to look like we’re witnessing a massacre.

In a matter of 24 hours, about $30 billion was wiped off of Bitcoin’s market cap. A look at the charts on CoinMarketCap shows that all but five of the top 100 cryptocurrencies are down, most by double digits. All told, Bitcoin has lost $177 billion from its high in December.



It’s not difficult to pin down why this is all happening. Even if you truly believe that blockchain technology is the future and decentralized currency will eventually find its footing, it’s impossible to ignore the fact that we’ve seen nothing but bad news for the whole crypto-sphere.

What’s perhaps the most troubling for long-time bitcoiners and newcomers alike is the almost daily developments in government regulations to address cryptocurrency. As financial analyst Nouriel Roubini, of Roubini Macro Associates, told Bloomberg, “Pretty much every G20 policymaker is talking about a crackdown.” This week saw officials in India indicate that they will be introducing regulations to completely eliminate payments with cryptocurrency in their country, and they made it official that India does not recognize Bitcoin as a legal tender.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin also said this week that he would like the members of the G20 group to discuss cryptocurrency regulations when its annual summit is held in March. The US has been mostly hands-off when it comes to cryptocurrency, electing to wait and see what happens. But the IRS still wants its cut, and investors are getting their first taste of what it’s like to pay Uncle Sam some of that free money. A visit to his accountant prompted one redditor to exclaim, “Fuck taxes man. This is so fucked it’s like I didn’t earn anything.” And it’s not just the federal government that wants its taxes; states are getting in on it, too. A bill in Arizona that would require residents to pay the state a portion of their earnings advanced toward becoming law this week.

While hugely successful companies like Facebook are trying to purge their services of cryptocurrency scams, floundering companies like Kodak have jumped at the opportunity to attract investors by slapping blockchain buzzwords onto their business plans. Kodak was supposed to launch its own initial coin offering (ICO) on Wednesday, but as more information was revealed about the company’s plans by the New York Times, Kodak said it needed more time to vet potential investors. Most of the gains that Kodak’s stock made after its blockchain announcement are now gone.

The most infamous company capitalizing on the frenzy, formerly named Long Island Iced Tea Corp, appears to have had a change of heart and on Friday it announced that it won’t be buying 1,000 cryptocurrency mining rigs after all. At the moment, the company’s name is still Long Island Blockchain.

Nobel Prize-winning economist Robert Shiller has insisted that Bitcoin will eventually “totally collapse,” even if it takes 100 years. At the moment, it’s on track to reach that goal much more quickly. Whether the “Bitcoin is bogus, but blockchain is real,” crowd will be proven right remains to be seen. Blockchain is, without a doubt, a unique technology, and lots of people are working interesting applications for it. The problem remains that the thousands of ICOs that have cropped up have their values inescapably entwined with Bitcoin. Maybe they’ll be able to disentangle that co-dependent relationship, but the expensive growing pains are certain to take a long time.

[Bloomberg]
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