Asianometry

Explore the fascinating evolution of electronic organizers and how they transitioned to PDAs. Discover the rise of programmable pocket computers and the impact of key players like Scion. Learn about the ambitious Newton project, its handwriting troubles, and the enduring legacy of the Palm Pilot. Dive deep into the competition between Palm and Microsoft, and witness the convergence that birthed smartphones. This journey highlights the tech industry’s shifts and innovations that paved the way for today’s devices.

Drought conditions in the UK expose the flaws of a privatized water system dating back to 1989. The history of water privatization reveals excessive debt and infrastructure challenges faced by companies like Thames Water. Public health crises led to municipal takeovers that improved outcomes, but privatization has since fueled rising bills and operational failures. Regulation's contradictory role hampers investment while the looming debt crisis raises questions about the future of water ownership. Alternatives like public and mixed ownership models are explored as potential solutions.

In April 1978, a surprising Marxist-Leninist coup transformed Afghanistan into a Democratic Republic. The podcast delves into Afghanistan's strategic geography and its tumultuous history of external influences. It explores the modernization efforts by leaders like Abdur-Rahman Khan and the economic struggles that fueled discontent. The rise of the PDPA and the eventual coup highlight the tension between urban elites and rural populations. With the Soviets unexpectedly supportive, the aftermath of the takeover was filled with violence and uncertainty for Afghanistan's future.

Exploring the intersection of AI and materials discovery, the discussion dives into how AI could revolutionize the traditionally tedious trial-and-error process of finding new materials. Topics include the limitations of current computational methods like DFT and the innovations from startups and tech giants like DeepMind. Attention is given to historical serendipitous discoveries, the importance of robust lab data, and the economic challenges of materials research. The outlook is hopeful yet realistic about future breakthroughs and the evolving landscape of the materials industry.

Discover the latest advancements in drone delivery as the host shares insights from a visit to Manna in Dublin. Learn why initial skepticism around drone logistics has shifted, and how Manna is targeting fast food in suburban areas. The conversation touches on the impressive speed of drone deliveries, the benefits of reduced emissions, and potential automation in operations. A live demo showcases the quick delivery process, while discussions reveal Manna's global expansion ambitions and the competitive landscape in this burgeoning industry.

In 1982, the sushi robot made waves as it automated the delicate art of sushi-making. The first machine, a rice robot, revolutionized how shari dama was created, achieving an impressive 1,200 rice balls per hour. The journey of the ST-77 highlights the intersection of tradition and technology, including the challenges faced in its design. As automation took hold, competition emerged, leading to rapid market changes and innovative advancements in sushi machinery. A fascinating look at how an ancient craft meets modern engineering!

Explore the fascinating world of 3D NAND technology, which took memory scaling to new heights by stacking layers vertically. Discover the limitations of 2D NAND and how Toshiba's innovative methods sparked a revolution. Dive into manufacturing challenges faced by industry giants like Samsung and the competitive landscape of 3D NAND production. Learn about the material differences in charge-trap technology and the implications for future storage solutions. Unpack the ongoing race among leading companies and their strategies to dominate the market.

A recent visit to the Bay Area unveils the invigorating AI boom, marking a turning point in industry perceptions. The discussion spotlights innovations from the Hot Chips event, particularly in photonics and chip manufacturing. AI's transformative impact on the Software as a Service model is explored, with caution against market saturation. The challenges of materials discovery and robotics innovations highlight the boundary-pushing efforts of tech startups. Finally, the changing investment landscape reveals intriguing dynamics for the future of AI in Silicon Valley.

In the 1970s, a tiny agency in Washington aimed high, attempting to build five nuclear power plants at once. The ambitious project turned into a financial disaster with the nation's largest municipal bond bankruptcy at the time. The debacle involved mismanagement, ballooning costs, and abandoned facilities. As power demands clashed with environmental concerns, the rise and fall of these nuclear projects revealed the obstacles of nuclear energy development amidst a shifting political landscape.

Delve into the fascinating history of steelmaking, where mini-mills rise up against traditional giants. Discover how electric arc furnaces and continuous casting revolutionized production techniques, giving these new players a competitive edge. The narrative covers the dynamics of the integrated mills' dominance and their strategic responses during turbulent times. Explore the challenges and triumphs of mini-mills as they reshape the American steel landscape, redefining efficiency and market strategies in a globalized industry.