The End of Magnetic Strips, How the Brain Copies Memory, and Pixar's Forgotten Pioneer
Aug 19, 2024
08:16
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Mastercard's shift from magnetic strips to EMV chip technology is set to enhance security and reshape the payment landscape. A groundbreaking study reveals that our brains create three distinct copies of every memory, offering fresh insights into memory disorders. Lastly, spotlighting Alvy Ray Smith, a lesser-known Pixar co-founder, the podcast reveals his dramatic confrontations with Steve Jobs and his vital contributions to the animation industry. Smith's legacy continues to influence how we experience computer graphics today.
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Quick takeaways
MasterCard's transition from magnetic strips to EMV chip technology marks a significant shift towards enhanced security in the payment ecosystem.
Research shows the brain creates three distinct copies of every memory, each contributing uniquely to memory formation and recall.
Deep dives
Mastering the Transition from Magnetic Strips to EMV Chip Technology
MasterCard is phasing out magnetic strips on credit cards, a technology that has been in use since the 1960s, by 2033 due to security vulnerabilities. The transition to EMV chip technology, which offers enhanced security by generating unique transaction codes, addresses major fraud concerns highlighted by incidents like the 2013 Target data breach. With MasterCard holding nearly 40% of the U.S. credit card market and $2.6 trillion charged in 2023, this shift will require businesses to upgrade their point-of-sale systems and will impact financial institutions’ card issuance processes. Other credit card companies may soon follow MasterCard's lead, which suggests a significant evolution in payment methods across various sectors.
Understanding Memory Formation Through Neuronal Dynamics
Recent research has revealed that the human brain creates three distinct copies of every memory, with each copy served by different groups of neurons developing at various stages of embryonic growth. Early-born neurons provide a long-lasting memory copy that strengthens over time, while late-born neurons yield an initial memory that fades quickly and is easily modified. Intermediate neurons produce a stable memory that remains consistent, showcasing the brain's remarkable storage capacity and adaptability. This triplicate memory system not only highlights the complexity of memory recall but also opens avenues for potential treatments for memory disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and PTSD.
The Tense Showdown Between Alvy Ray Smith and Steve Jobs at Pixar
Alvy Ray Smith, a pivotal figure in computer animation and co-founder of Pixar, had a tumultuous relationship with Steve Jobs marked by confrontations and clashes over management style. Their most heated moment culminated in the infamous Pixar whiteboard incident of 1990, where a disagreement over Jobs' possessiveness led to a shouting match between the two. Following this, Smith left Pixar in 1991 and continued to innovate in the field of graphics at Microsoft, where he developed influential technologies recognized with multiple awards. While Jobs played a significant role in Pixar's later success, Smith's foundational work in computer graphics remains a crucial part of the industry's evolution.
Today's Discover Daily episode begins with a look at the impact of Mastercard's transition away from magnetic strips technology. This shift towards EMV chip technology promises enhanced security and will significantly impact various sectors of the payment ecosystem.
Then, a new study shows how long term and short term memory actual works: our brain create three distinct copies of every memory, each serving a unique purpose in memory formation and recall. We explain how this actual works and what it could mean for memory disorders.
Our final story focuses on a lesser known, computer animation pioneer: Alvy Ray Smith. Smith co-founded Pixar and stood up to Steve Jobs in a dramatic confrontation. His contributions to computer graphics and animation continue to shape the industry, despite being overshadowed by Jobs' larger-than-life persona.
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