iCity 1.5 may promise procedural 3D cities inside Blender, but let’s face it: it’s just another half-baked tool that fails to deliver on its hype. The updates to road generation are nothing but a band-aid on a gaping wound! Users are left to deal with clunky interfaces and frustrating limitations that hinder creativity rather than enhance it. Why are we settling for mediocrity in a time when technology should be pushing boundaries? This tool should make city planning seamless, yet here we are, wasting time and energy on a subpar experience. It’s time to demand better! #iCity #3DModeling #Blender #TechFail #CityPlanning

It's absolutely ridiculous that in a society obsessed with nostalgia and gaming culture, we still can't get the basics right! The Magic: The Gathering x Final Fantasy VI Commander Deck should be a celebration of two iconic franchises, yet we’re left with a half-baked experience that fails to capture the emotional depth of Final Fantasy VI. How can they expect us to connect with Celes's heart-wrenching journey when the mechanics feel rushed and uninspired? This is a blatant disregard for the fans who cherish these stories! The second half of Final Fantasy VI deserves better than this shoddy crossover. I’m furious that these beloved characters are reduced to mere cards in a lackluster deck! #FinalFantasyVI #MagicTheGathering #GamingCommunity

In a world where we’re all desperately trying to make our digital creations look as lifelike as a potato, we now have the privilege of diving headfirst into the revolutionary topic of "Separate shaders in AI 3D generated models." Yes, because why not complicate a process that was already confusing enough? Let’s face it: if you’re using AI to generate your 3D models, you probably thought you could skip the part where you painstakingly texture each inch of your creation. But alas! Here comes the good ol’ Yoji, waving his virtual wand and telling us that, surprise, surprise, you need to prepare those models for proper texturing in tools like Substance Painter. Because, of course, the AI that’s supposed to do the heavy lifting can’t figure out how to make your model look decent without a little extra human intervention. But don’t worry! Yoji has got your back with his meticulous “how-to” on separating shaders. Just think of it as a fun little scavenger hunt, where you get to discover all the mistakes the AI made while trying to do the job for you. Who knew that a model could look so… special? It’s like the AI took a look at your request and thought, “Yeah, let’s give this one a nice touch of abstract art!” Nothing screams professionalism like a model that looks like it was textured by a toddler on a sugar high. And let’s not forget the joy of navigating through the labyrinthine interfaces of Substance Painter. Ah, yes! The thrill of clicking through endless menus, desperately searching for that elusive shader that will somehow make your model look less like a lumpy marshmallow and more like a refined piece of art. It’s a bit like being in a relationship, really. You start with high hopes and a glossy exterior, only to end up questioning all your life choices as you try to figure out how to make it work. So, here we are, living in 2023, where AI can generate models that resemble something out of a sci-fi nightmare, and we still need to roll up our sleeves and get our hands dirty with shaders and textures. Who knew that the future would come with so many manual adjustments? Isn’t technology just delightful? In conclusion, if you’re diving into the world of AI 3D generated models, brace yourself for a wild ride of shaders and textures. And remember, when all else fails, just slap on a shiny shader and call it a masterpiece. After all, art is subjective, right? #3DModels #AIGenerated #SubstancePainter #Shaders #DigitalArt

In a world where the most riveting conversations revolve around the intricacies of USB-C power cables and, no less, the riveting excitement of clocks, it's clear that humanity has reached a new peak of intellectual stimulation. The latest episode of the Hackaday Podcast, which I can only assume has a live studio audience composed entirely of enthusiastic engineers, delves deep into the art of DIY USB cables and the riveting world of plastic punches. Who knew that the very fabric of our modern existence could be woven together with such gripping topics? Let’s talk about those USB-C power cables for a moment. If you ever thought your life was lacking a bit of suspense, fear not! You can now embark on a thrilling journey where you, too, can solder the perfect cable. Imagine the rush of adrenaline as you uncover the secrets of power distribution. Will your device charge? Will it explode? The stakes have never been higher! Forget about action movies; this is the real deal. And for those who prefer the “punch” in their lives—no, not the fruity drink, but rather the plastic punching tools—we're diving into a world where you can create perfectly punched holes in plastic, for all your DIY needs. Because what better way to spend your weekend than creating a masterpiece that no one will ever see or appreciate? And of course, let's not overlook the “Laugh Track Machine.” Yes, you heard that right. In times when social interactions have been reduced to Zoom calls and emojis, the need for a laugh track has never been more essential. Imagine the ambiance you could create at your next dinner party: a perfectly timed laugh track responding to your mediocre jokes about USB cables. If that doesn’t scream societal progress, I don’t know what does. Elliot and Al, the podcast's dynamic duo, took a week-long hiatus just to recharge their mental batteries before launching into this treasure trove of knowledge. It’s like they went on a sabbatical to the land of “Absolutely Not Boring.” You can almost hear the tension build as they return to tackle the most pressing matters of our time. Forget climate change or global health crises; the real issues we should all be focused on are the nuances of home-built tech. It's fascinating how this episode manages to encapsulate the spirit of our times—where the excitement of crafting cables and punching holes serves as a distraction from the complexities of life. So, if you seek to feel alive again, tune in to the Hackaday Podcast. You might just find that your greatest adventure lies in the world of DIY tech, where the only thing more fragile than your creations is your will to continue listening. And remember, in this brave new world of innovation, if your USB-C cable fails, you can always just punch a hole in something—preferably not your dreams. #HackadayPodcast #USBCables #PlasticPunches #DIYTech #LaughTrackMachine

It's absolutely infuriating to see how companies like Acer continue to shove their so-called "cutting-edge technology" down our throats while the actual issues in the tech world remain unaddressed. Their recent announcement about the new Kuboilot+ series, boasting "superior artificial intelligence capabilities," is yet another example of how out of touch they are with the real needs of consumers. Let’s break it down. What exactly are people looking for in a laptop today? Is it just flashy features and buzzwords like "AI"? Or is it more about reliability, usability, and actual performance? The industry is drowning in gimmicks, and yet here we are, getting bombarded with another product that prioritizes marketing over substance. When will companies like Acer understand that consumers are not just looking for the latest specs, but for devices that can actually make a difference in their day-to-day lives? It's astonishing how companies prioritize profit margins over quality. They roll out devices that may look great on paper, but when you peel back the layers, you find a product that fails to deliver on its promises. The Kuboilot+ may boast of “superior AI features,” but what good are those features if the hardware can't support them adequately? It’s not enough to slap a fancy label on a device and expect consumers to fall for it. We need devices that work seamlessly, not just ones that can run a few flashy AI applications that most users will never utilize. Moreover, let's talk about the environmental impact of constantly churning out new devices. With every new release, we see more electronic waste piling up, while companies like Acer sit back and enjoy their profits, completely ignoring the damage they're causing to our planet. How can we, as consumers, continue to support brands that have no regard for sustainability? It's time to hold these companies accountable for their actions and demand that they invest in technologies that not only work but also contribute positively to the world around us. And let's not forget about customer support. With new technologies come new problems, and companies like Acer often fall short when it comes to helping their customers navigate these issues. When these new Kuboilot+ devices inevitably encounter bugs or performance issues, will Acer be there to help? Or will they just leave users in the lurch, forcing them to navigate a labyrinth of support calls and troubleshooting? In conclusion, the launch of the Kuboilot+ series is not something to celebrate; it's a wake-up call. It highlights the urgent need for consumers to demand more from tech companies. We deserve better than just another flashy device that claims to be “intelligent” without the backbone to back it up. It’s high time we stop falling for the marketing gimmicks and start holding these companies accountable for the quality and sustainability of their products. #Acer #KuboilotPlus #ArtificialIntelligence #TechCritique #ConsumerRights

In a world where hackers are the modern-day ninjas, lurking in the shadows of our screens, it’s fascinating to watch the dance of their tactics unfold. Enter the realm of ESD diodes—yes, those little components that seem to be the unsung heroes of electronic protection. You’d think any self-respecting hacker would treat them with the reverence they deserve. But alas, as the saying goes, not all heroes wear capes—some just forget to wear their ESD protection. Let’s take a moment to appreciate the artistry of neglecting ESD protection. You have your novice hackers, who, in their quest for glory, overlook the importance of these diodes, thinking, “What’s the worst that could happen? A little static never hurt anyone!” Ah, the blissful ignorance! It’s like going into battle without armor, convinced that sheer bravado will carry the day. Spoiler alert: it won’t. Their circuits will fry faster than you can say “short circuit,” leaving them wondering why their master plan turned into a crispy failure. Then, we have the seasoned veterans—the ones who should know better but still scoff at the idea of ESD protection. Perhaps they think they’re above such mundane concerns, like some digital demigods who can manipulate the very fabric of electronics without consequence. I mean, who needs ESD diodes when you have years of experience, right? It’s almost adorable, watching them prance into their tech disasters, blissfully unaware that their arrogance is merely a prelude to a spectacular downfall. And let’s not forget the “lone wolves,” those hackers who fancy themselves as rebels without a cause. They see ESD protection as a sign of weakness, a crutch for the faint-hearted. In their minds, real hackers thrive on chaos—why bother with protection when you can revel in the thrill of watching your carefully crafted device go up in flames? It’s the equivalent of a toddler throwing a tantrum because they’re told not to touch the hot stove. Spoiler alert number two: the stove doesn’t care about your feelings. In this grand tapestry of hacker culture, the neglect of ESD protection is not merely a technical oversight; it’s a statement, a badge of honor for those who believe they can outsmart the very devices they tinker with. But let’s be real: ESD diodes are the unsung protectors of the digital realm, and ignoring them is like inviting disaster to your tech party and hoping it doesn’t show up. Newsflash: it will. So, the next time you find yourself in the presence of a hacker who scoffs at ESD protections, take a moment to revel in their bravado. Just remember to pack some marshmallows for when their devices inevitably catch fire. After all, it’s only a matter of time before the sparks start flying. #Hackers #ESDDiodes #TechFails #CyberSecurity #DIYDisasters

In a world where the line between reality and digital wizardry is blurrier than ever, the recent revelations from the VFX wizards of "Emilia Pérez" are nothing short of a masterclass in illusion. Who knew that behind the glitzy allure of cinema, the real challenge lies not in crafting captivating stories but in wrestling with software like Meshroom, which sounds more like a trendy café than a tool for tracking and matchmoving? Cédric Fayolle and Rodolphe Zirah, the dynamic duo of visual effects from Les Artizans and MPC Paris, have bravely ventured into the trenches of studio filming, armed with little more than their laptops and a dream. As they regale us with tales of their epic battles against rogue pixels and the occasional uncooperative lighting, one can't help but wonder if their job descriptions should include "mastery of digital sorcery" along with their technical skills. The irony of creating breathtaking visuals while juggling the whims of digital tools is not lost on us. It's like watching a magician pull a rabbit out of a hat, only the hat is a complex software that sometimes works and sometimes… well, let's just say it has a mind of its own. Honestly, who needs a plot when you have VFX that can make even the dullest scene sparkle like it was shot on a Hollywood red carpet? As they delve into the challenges of filming in a controlled environment, the question arises: are we really impressed by the visuals, or are we just in awe of the technology that makes it all possible? Perhaps the true stars of "Emilia Pérez" aren’t the actors or the storyline, but rather the invisible hands of the VFX teams. And let’s face it, if the storyline fails to captivate us, at least we'll have some eye-popping effects to distract us from the plot holes. So, as we eagerly await the final product, let’s raise a glass to Cédric and Rodolphe, the unsung heroes of the film industry, tirelessly working behind the curtain to ensure that our cinematic dreams are just a few clicks away. After all, who wouldn’t want to be part of a film where the biggest challenge is making sure the virtual sky doesn’t look like a poorly rendered video game from the '90s? In the grand scheme of the film industry, one thing is clear: with great VFX comes great responsibility—mainly the responsibility to keep the audience blissfully unaware of how much CGI magic it takes to make a mediocre script look like a masterpiece. Cheers to that! #EmiliaPérez #VFX #FilmMagic #DigitalSorcery #Cinema

Why does the world of animation, particularly at events like the SIGGRAPH Electronic Theater, continue to suffer from mediocrity? I can't help but feel enraged by the sheer lack of innovation and the repetitive nature of the projects being showcased. On April 17th, we’re promised a “free screening” of selected projects that are supposedly representing the pinnacle of creativity and diversity in animation. But let’s get real — what does “selection” even mean in a world where creativity is stifled by conformity? Look, I understand that this is a global showcase, but when you sift through the projects that make it through the cracks, what do we find? Overly polished but uninspired animations that follow the same tired formulas. The “Electronic Theater” is supposed to be a beacon of innovation, yet here we are again, being fed a bland compilation that does little to challenge or excite. It’s like being served a fast-food version of art: quick, easy, and utterly forgettable. The call for diversity is also a double-edged sword. Sure, we need to see work from all corners of the globe, but diversity in animation is meaningless if the underlying concepts are stale. It’s not enough to tick boxes and say, “Look how diverse we are!” when the actual content fails to push boundaries. Instead of celebrating real creativity, we end up with a homogenized collection of animations that are, at best, mediocre. And let’s talk about the timing of this event. April 17th? Are we really thinking this through? This date seems to be plucked out of thin air without consideration for the audience’s engagement. Just another poorly planned initiative that assumes people will flock to see what is essentially a second-rate collection of animations. Is this really the best you can do, Montpellier ACM SIGGRAPH? Where is the excitement? Where is the passion? What’s even more frustrating is that this could have been an opportunity to truly showcase groundbreaking work that challenges the status quo. Instead, it feels like a desperate attempt to fill seats and pat ourselves on the back for hosting an event. Real creators are out there, creating phenomenal work that could change the landscape of animation, yet we choose to showcase the safe and the bland. It’s time to demand more from events like SIGGRAPH. It’s time to stop settling for mediocrity and start championing real innovation in animation. If the Electronic Theater is going to stand for anything, it should stand for pushing boundaries, not simply checking boxes. Let’s not allow ourselves to be content with what we’re served. It’s time for a revolution in animation that doesn’t just showcase the same old, same old. We deserve better, and the art community deserves better. #AnimationRevolution #SIGGRAPH2024 #CreativityMatters #DiversityInAnimation #ChallengeTheNorm

What a disgrace! The recent announcement regarding the official art book of "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" is nothing short of an embarrassing cash grab by Sandfall Interactive and ActuGaming.net. Are we seriously expected to applaud this blatant attempt to milk fans dry? This is a classic example of the gaming industry prioritizing profit over quality and respect for its community. Let’s break it down. First off, the hype surrounding "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" is overshadowed by the fact that this art book seems to be marketed as some kind of sacred treasure. Seriously? It’s just an art book! The gaming community is smarter than this. It’s infuriating to see creators take advantage of our passion for their work, slapping a price tag on what should be a free expression of creativity. The audacity of Sandfall Interactive to push this as something essential for fans is beyond frustrating. Where is the integrity? Moreover, what about the accessibility? How many of us can afford to splurge on an art book while we’re already investing in games that often come riddled with bugs and technical issues? This trend of pre-ordering merchandise is absolutely maddening. It encourages a toxic culture of consumerism, where gamers are pressured to part with their hard-earned money for something that may not even meet expectations. Are we supposed to just accept this as the new normal? Absolutely not! And let’s talk about the content itself. The description hints at a “true masterpiece” but fails to deliver any tangible evidence of that claim. What are we getting? Concept art that’s likely to be recycled from promotional materials? How about some actual behind-the-scenes insight or a deeper dive into the creative process? Instead, we’re being fed a glorified collection of pretty pictures that don’t add any real value to the gaming experience. It’s infuriating to think about how the industry is willing to settle for mediocrity, all for the sake of profit. To top it all off, ActuGaming.net should be ashamed for promoting this sham without questioning the ethics behind it. Are they merely a mouthpiece for Sandfall Interactive, or do they care about the opinions of their readers? It’s hard to tell when they’re pushing content that feels disingenuous and exploitative. We need more critical voices in the gaming media, not just cheerleaders for corporate greed. In conclusion, it’s time for fans to stand up against these practices. Let’s not fall for the trap of pre-ordering and overhyped merchandise that serves only to pad the wallets of those at the top. Demand better from our creators and the media that covers them. We deserve respect, transparency, and quality over empty promises. #ClairObscur #GamingCommunity #ConsumerRights #ArtBook #GameIndustryCritique

Daniel Pearson , CEO, KnownHostJune 12, 20253 Min ReadBusiness success concept. Cubes with arrows and target on the top.Cyber incidents are expected to cost the US billion in 2025. According to the latest estimates, this dynamic will continue to rise, reaching approximately 1.82 trillion US dollars in cybercrime costs by 2028. These figures highlight the crucial importance of strong cybersecurity strategies, which businesses must build to reduce the likelihood of risks. As technology evolves at a dramatic pace, businesses are increasingly dependent on utilizing digital infrastructure, exposing themselves to threats such as ransomware, accidental data loss, and corruption.  Despite the 3-2-1 backup rule being invented in 2009, this strategy has stayed relevant for businesses over the years, ensuring that the loss of data is minimized under threat, and will be a crucial method in the upcoming years to prevent major data loss.   What Is the 3-2-1 Backup Rule? The 3-2-1 backup rule is a popular backup strategy that ensures resilience against data loss. The setup consists of keeping your original data and two backups.  The data also needs to be stored in two different locations, such as the cloud or a local drive.  The one in the 3-2-1 backup rule represents storing a copy of your data off site, and this completes the setup.  This setup has been considered a gold standard in IT security, as it minimizes points of failure and increases the chance of successful data recovery in the event of a cyber-attack.  Related:Why Is This Rule Relevant in the Modern Cyber Threat Landscape? Statistics show that in 2024, 80% of companies have seen an increase in the frequency of cloud attacks.  Although many businesses assume that storing data in the cloud is enough, it is certainly not failsafe, and businesses are in bigger danger than ever due to the vast development of technology and AI capabilities attackers can manipulate and use.  As the cloud infrastructure has seen a similar speed of growth, cyber criminals are actively targeting these, leaving businesses with no clear recovery option. Therefore, more than ever, businesses need to invest in immutable backup solutions.  Common Backup Mistakes Businesses Make A common misstep is keeping all backups on the same physical network. If malware gets in, it can quickly spread and encrypt both the primary data and the backups, wiping out everything in one go. Another issue is the lack of offline or air-gapped backups. Many businesses rely entirely on cloud-based or on-premises storage that's always connected, which means their recovery options could be compromised during an attack. Related:Finally, one of the most overlooked yet crucial steps is testing backup restoration. A backup is only useful if it can actually be restored. Too often, companies skip regular testing. This can lead to a harsh reality check when they discover, too late, that their backup data is either corrupted or completely inaccessible after a breach. How to Implement the 3-2-1 Backup Rule? To successfully implement the 3-2-1 backup strategy as part of a robust cybersecurity framework, organizations should start by diversifying their storage methods. A resilient approach typically includes a mix of local storage, cloud-based solutions, and physical media such as external hard drives.  From there, it's essential to incorporate technologies that support write-once, read-many functionalities. This means backups cannot be modified or deleted, even by administrators, providing an extra layer of protection against threats. To further enhance resilience, organizations should make use of automation and AI-driven tools. These technologies can offer real-time monitoring, detect anomalies, and apply predictive analytics to maintain the integrity of backup data and flag any unusual activity or failures in the process. Lastly, it's crucial to ensure your backup strategy aligns with relevant regulatory requirements, such as GDPR in the UK or CCPA in the US. Compliance not only mitigates legal risk but also reinforces your commitment to data protection and operational continuity. Related:By blending the time-tested 3-2-1 rule with modern advances like immutable storage and intelligent monitoring, organizations can build a highly resilient backup architecture that strengthens their overall cybersecurity posture. About the AuthorDaniel Pearson CEO, KnownHostDaniel Pearson is the CEO of KnownHost, a managed web hosting service provider. Pearson also serves as a dedicated board member and supporter of the AlmaLinux OS Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on advancing the AlmaLinux OS -- an open-source operating system derived from RHEL. His passion for technology extends beyond his professional endeavors, as he actively promotes digital literacy and empowerment. Pearson's entrepreneurial drive and extensive industry knowledge have solidified his reputation as a respected figure in the tech community. See more from Daniel Pearson ReportsMore ReportsNever Miss a Beat: Get a snapshot of the issues affecting the IT industry straight to your inbox.SIGN-UPYou May Also Like #role #backup #rule #cybersecurity