For years, Ive had a secret ambition tucked away somewhere near the back of my brain. It was to write a simple note-taking appone that wouldnt be overwhelmed with features and that would reflect my own mental filing system. In part, this yen stemmed from my dissatisfaction with existing notetakers. But I also saw the project as an adventure in software development that could only make me a smarter technology user.Just one thing stopped me: The formidable technical knowledge required even just to get started. Im not an utter programming neophyte, but my skills largely atrophied after I graduated from high school and never extended much beyond writing buggy games. Almost everything Id need to know about modern coding Id have to learn from scratch.Or so it seemed.Recently, however, a new wave of AI-infused tools with names such as Replit, Bolt, and Lovable has enabled a phenomenon that OpenAI cofounder Andrej Karpathy has dubbed vibecoding. It doesnt involve coding an app yourself. Instead, you use a chatbot-like interface to tell an AI collaborator what you envision, and let it do the heavy lifting. Youre more product manager than programmer, and while a certain aptitude for technical matters is helpful, the barrier to building something is dramatically lower than in the past.Using a Replit feature called Agent, I put together my dream notes app in a week, finding the process so addictive that I often tinkered into the wee hours. I gave my brainchild a name (Doolee, as in duly noted) and used ChatGPT to design a logomark (a pencil twisted into a lowercase d). Mostly, though, I simply told the Agent what I wanted, including features that occurred to me as I was overseeing the project. The web-based result runs on my iPhone, iPad, and Mac, and doesnt feel much different than a native-app version might have. It requires a little more fit and finish before I can declare it complete, but Im already smitten with it.As a product team of one building an app with an intended user base of one, I aimed only to please myself. Ive always loved sticky notes as a metaphor for note managementtheyre informal, quick, and flexible. So I asked Replits Agent to make my app look like a searchable wall of them. It took just a few minutes to rough out a minimum-viable-product version. From there, I just kept tweaking and adding more capabilities, drawing inspiration from my favorite features in other notetakers Ive used over the decades, from a 1990s DOS program called Info Select to Evernote to the one Ive been using recently, Bear.I had the Agent program features such as a search bar right at the top, a hashtag browser, and lists for task management and other purposes. I made it turn URLs into little cards that display page titles and source sites. I got it to sync notes back and forth between devices, including in scenarios where the app might not have access to the internet and would need to sync later. Even a week ago, I wouldnt have guessed I could will something so professional-looking into existence.Whats it like collaborating with a software engineer that happens to be a piece of software itself? Throughout the development effort, the Replit Agent almost always grasped my requests without me having to spell out every detail. Its first drafts of new featureswritten using web technologies, such as TypeScript and React, that are far beyond my kenwere often solid. When they werent, I provided feedback to nudge it in the right direction. It came off as calm and persistent, and often heaped praise on my feature requests (Thats a fantastic idea!) in a manner that was somehow synthetic and charming.But as our collaboration progressed, it became clearer that the Agent doesnt really think like a human. It couldnt use the app it was constructing; verifying that everything worked was part of my job. At every step, the AI appeared to be puzzling out the project, as if it hadnt been involved all along. Fortunately, it was a quick study.I also learned not to trust the Agent too much. Whenever it finished debugging a problem area, it declared that work to have been a success, which it often wasnt, especially at first. Weirder still, at one point, the Agent helpfully proposed adding a feature that would turn audio recordings into text. When I took it up on the offer, I saw no evidence that it followed through.A snippet of my conversation with Replits AgentEven if the Agent proved overconfident and obtuse at times, the end result is an app I could never have produced on my own. Even if Id hired a competent human programmer, I doubt that Id have ended up with something that made me so happy so quickly.Speaking of paying programmers: The basic free Replit plan might whet your appetite to the services possibilities, but youll probably need to spring for one of the paid tiers to tackle serious projects. I maxed out the $20-per-month one I signed up for pretty quickly and ended up investing almost $300 in producing Doolee. I will also be paying Replit fees to host my app, though they shouldnt add up to a fortune as long as Im the only user. Given how long Ive craved building something like this, I dont find the cost unreasonable.Along with learning something about the highs and lows of AI-centric product development, I came away from this venture even more attuned to the ways productivity software in its conventional form can bog us down. With off-the-shelf apps, were at the mercy of design decisions we had nothing to do with. Most products are trying to please everybody, which leads to feature bloat. Anything with much historyMicrosoft Word turns 42 this yearis likely to be particularly cluttered with cruft.The tech industrys conventional wisdom says that users typically ignore a huge percentage of the features in the software they use. (The exact figure cited varies, but Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella told me that Office users tend to utilize just 5% of its features.) The only way around this conundrum would be to create your own apps, built with only the features you want, implemented as you see fit. Until tools such as Replit came along, that would have been a pipe dream for most of us. Now its an everyday reality, albeit one thats still slightly mind-bending. I cant wait to see where it goesand I hope to use my Doolee app for years to come.Youve been reading Plugged In, Fast Companys weekly tech newsletter from me, global technology editor Harry McCracken. If a friend or colleague forwarded this edition to youor if youre reading it on FastCompany.comyou can check out previous issues and sign up to get it yourself every Friday morning. I love hearing from you: Ping me at hmccracken@fastcompany.com with your feedback and ideas for future newsletters. Im also on Bluesky, Mastodon, and Threads, and you can follow Plugged In on Flipboard.

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with designers and engineers pushing the boundaries of whats possible in vehicle design and functionality. Here we have curated a collection of five groundbreaking automotive concepts that offer a glimpse into the future of transportation. These concepts showcase cutting-edge technology and also introduce unique design elements that set them apart from traditional vehicles.From high-speed race cars inspired by winter sports to hypercars that bring Formula 1 technology to the road these concepts are a testament to human ingenuity and innovation. They beautifully showcase the innovative spirit driving the industry forward. They blend advanced technology, unique design elements, and practical functionality, offering an exciting glimpse into the future of mobility.1. Audi Skeleton ConceptThe Audi Skeleton race car is a breathtaking concept that merges the thrill of winter sports with high-speed automotive design. Inspired by the Skeleton bobsled, this concept car positions the driver in a head-first lying position reminiscent of the daring sport. Designed by David Gallego, the Audi Skeleton race car takes a bold detour from conventional automotive design, focusing on delivering an exhilarating experience for daredevil racers.The concept incorporates the Bauhaus philosophy, resulting in a linear and geometric form that is both functional and visually striking. The cars reinforced carbon fiber body shell offers enhanced protection, similar to the monocoque shell of a Formula-1 car, ensuring safety even in high-speed collisions.What we likeCombines elements from winter sports and racing, offering a unique driving experience.Reinforced carbon fiber body shell for enhanced driver protection.What we dislikePrimarily designed for thrill-seekers and racing enthusiasts.Unlikely to be suitable for everyday driving.2. Mercedes-AMG ONE HypercarThe Mercedes-AMG ONE Hypercar concept is a stunning blend of Formula 1 technology and road-worthy design. This concept car features a 1.6-liter V6 hybrid powertrain, borrowed directly from Formula 1, and is paired with four electric motors, delivering an impressive output of over 1,000 horsepower.The vehicles hybrid system is optimized for high-performance driving, with a battery pack that supports an electric-only range for added versatility. The concept envisions a future where the AMG ONE evolves into a fully electrified vehicle, maintaining the brands heritage while embracing cutting-edge technology. The dual-compressed battery design ensures a balanced weight distribution, enhancing driving dynamics and performance.What we likeIncorporates advanced racing technology for unparalleled performance.Delivers over 1,000 horsepower, making it a formidable hypercar contender.What we dislikeThe sophisticated hybrid system may require specialized maintenance.3. Jus Electric BikeThis innovative electric bike concept is redefining urban transportation with its multifunctional design. Unlike conventional e-bikes, this model features a headlight that doubles as an emergency flashlight, providing riders with a reliable light source in critical situations. The idea for this dual-purpose headlight emerged from the designers personal experience, highlighting the importance of safety features for urban riders.This e-bike is designed for eco-conscious commuters and delivery personnel who require dependable lighting while navigating busy city streets at night. The headlamp can be easily detached and used as a flashlight, ensuring riders are never caught off guard during unexpected incidents. It is amped with safety features for urban cyclists, offering a practical solution that enhances visibility and security.What we likeThe dual-purpose headlight provides added security in low-light conditions.Supports sustainable urban transportation with electric power.What we dislikePrimarily designed for city commuting, may not suit long-distance travel.The detachable headlamp might be easily lost if not secured properly.4. Volvo 360cThe Volvo 360c is a visionary concept that encapsulates the future of autonomous driving with a focus on safety and passenger comfort. This level 5 autonomous vehicle is designed to tackle mixed traffic situations without human intervention, offering a seamless and secure travel experience. The 360c features a gull-winged design and a spacious, clutter-free interior that prioritizes passenger comfort and openness.Advanced sensors and communication standards enhance the vehicles spatial awareness, ensuring it is prepared for any unforeseen road situations. The panoramic glass windshield adds to the sense of openness, making the Volvo 360c a practical and appealing choice for urban environments.What we likeAdvanced sensors and communication systems enhance safety.Spacious interior and panoramic views prioritize passenger comfort.What we dislikeFull autonomy may take time to become mainstream.May not be ideal for rural or less developed areas without supporting infrastructure.5. BUCKThe BUCK bike is a refreshing concept that combines the functionality of a city bicycle and a mountain bike, catering to office workers and adventure seekers alike. This lightweight e-bike is designed with a concealed laptop stand, transforming it into a personal mobile workstation. As more professionals turn to bicycles for commuting, the BUCK bike offers a unique solution for those who need to work on the go.The integrated laptop stand allows users to set up a workstation anywhere, providing the freedom to handle urgent tasks without searching for a place to settle down. This concept aligns with the growing trend of eco-friendly commuting and flexible work arrangements, offering a practical and sustainable transportation option for modern professionals.What we likeMerges city and mountain bike features for diverse commuting needs.A concealed laptop stand offers convenience for remote work.What we dislikePrimarily targets professionals who require mobile work solutions.Concealed stand may limit the overall storage capacity of the bike.The post Top 5 Innovative Automotive Concepts That Are Redefining Transportation first appeared on Yanko Design.

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MacworldWhen Apple decides to open a new flagship Apple Store, it selects prominent locations and has visions of unique architectural concepts. Such was the case in 2017, when Apple announced its intentions for a new store in Federation Square, or Fed Square as the locals of Melbourne, Australia, put it. Fed Square is located in Melbournes Art Precinct, known locally as the artistic heart of the city.Sounds like an ideal place to put a flagship Apple Store, doesnt it? Well, not long after Apple announced its most significant store in the Southern Hemisphere, the community voiced its objections, fearing that Apples building would harm the locations cultural relevance. Eventually, Heritage Victoria, a government regulator that monitors historic sites, rejected an application for the demolition of the Yarra Building to make way for the Apple Store. That rejection killed the Federation Square Apple Store project.However, that Apple Store does livevirtually, at least, thanks to Filip Chudzinski, a Germany-based designer. Chudzinki created an Apple Federation Store gallery that displays renderings of his ideas of what that store would be like. Chudzinkis images are based on a limited selection of reports, images, and plans from the public preview of the projects second proposal.Chudzinskis images feature a two-story mostly glass building that simultaneously stands out and blends in with its environment. A metal mesh screen on one of the sides of the building can retract to allow more sunlight in. The lower floor would be the traditional retail space, while the upper level would be for Today at Apple sessions and customer support. The building would overlook the Yarra River.Below is a selection of our favorite images but there are many more. Be sure to check out Chudzinskis full gallery, which includes an animation of the retracting mesh screens, spatial photos for Apple Vision Pro users, and downloadable wallpapers for your Mac.Filip ChudzinskiFilip ChudzinskiFilip ChudzinskiFilip ChudzinskiFilip Chudzinski

MacworldiOS 18.4, Apples latest iPhone software update, appears to contain yet another major bug, or group of related bugs. Multiple users driving multiple brands of car say iOS 18.4 has caused serious problems with CarPlay, in some cases rendering it completely unusable.At the milder end, users complain that post-update CarPlay no longer shows Now Playing information in the instrument panel.Before, the music being played on CarPlay would appear on my dash as well, says the author of a busy Reddit thread. Since I updated to 18.4 today it no longer does it and is just blank now.Others report issues with Siri through CarPlay, either not being able to read out texts or losing audio capabilities entirely. And at the most extreme end CarPlay simply refuses to launch until users reconnect their devices, sometimes as many as five times.The bug is not specific to any one brand or model of car, so we can rule out an issue at that level. Autoevolution, which broke the story, says its aware of the problem affecting the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid, the 2025 Mazda CX-30, 2024 Hondas, multiple Volkswagen models, the 2023 Audi S3, and the 2023 Nissan Frontier, and I also spotted the Ford Territory and Fiesta, the 2020 Subaru Forester, and an unspecified Jeep in the thread.This is an embarrassing development for Apple, after iOS 18.4 was also reported to have caused issues with lossless audio on the AirPods Max (although thats since been fixed) and unwanted apps to appear unexpectedly on users iPhones. To some extent such bugs are understandable because 18.4 is a major update with numerous tweaks and new features: before these bugs began to appear we optimistically listed 15 reasons to install it right away.If CarPlay is a major part of your iPhone usage, we would now advise caution; it may be worth waiting until Apple acknowledges the bug and rolls out a fix before updating. If youve already installed iOS 18.4, keep an eye out for another update (likely 18.4.1 or similar) which could contain a fix. Open the Settings app and go to General > Software Update to see the latest version available.

Two of the biggest names in artificial intelligence are independently developing new AI tools that encourage learning, at a time when the technology has been criticized for dumbing down smart users in the enterprise and discouraging critical thinking. While the new initiatives from OpenAI and Anthropic are aimed at transforming how AI is used in higher education, the opportunities they open up extend beyond universities.The approach taken by the two AI firms, emphasizing learning, retention, and critical thinking, has implications for enterprises that are increasingly integrating AI into their workflows.Such education-focused initiatives arrive at a crucial moment, as research increasingly shows that improper use of AI in workplaces leads to what experts call cognitive atrophy a decline in employees ability to think critically when AI handles too many cognitive tasks.