Tech

Baby X: Have We Gone Too Far?

Published

10 months ago

June 20, 2024

Bolanle Media Staff

In the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence, one project stands out for its uncanny ability to bridge the gap between human and machine: Baby X. This digital infant, created by Dr. Mark Sagar and his team at the University of Auckland’s Laboratory for Animate Technologies, is pushing the boundaries of what we thought possible in AI and human-computer interaction.

What is Baby X?

Baby X is a computer-generated simulation of a human infant, complete with a lifelike face and a complex AI “brain” that mimics human neural networks. Unlike traditional AI systems, Baby X is designed to learn and develop in ways that closely resemble human cognitive development.

How Does Baby X Work?

At its core, Baby X utilizes a combination of advanced computer graphics and artificial neural networks. The system is programmed with basic biological and psychological models, allowing it to:

1. Express a range of emotions through facial expressions
2. Respond to visual and auditory stimuli
3. Learn and adapt based on interactions
4. Develop rudimentary language skills

The Significance of Baby X

Advancing AI Research
Baby X represents a significant leap forward in creating AI systems that can learn and develop more naturally. By mimicking human infant cognition, researchers hope to unlock new insights into machine learning and artificial general intelligence.

Understanding Human Development
The project offers a unique platform for studying early human development. Psychologists and neuroscientists can use Baby X to test theories about infant learning and cognition in ways that would be impossible or unethical with real infants.

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Improving Human-AI Interaction
As AI becomes more prevalent in our daily lives, creating systems that can interact more naturally with humans is crucial. Baby X’s ability to express emotions and respond to social cues could pave the way for more intuitive and empathetic AI interfaces.

Ethical Considerations and Future Implications

While Baby X presents exciting possibilities, it also raises important ethical questions. As AI systems become more lifelike and emotionally engaging, we must consider the psychological impact of human-AI relationships, especially on children who may not fully understand the nature of these digital entities.

Looking ahead, the technologies developed through Baby X could have far-reaching applications in fields such as:

Education: Creating more engaging and adaptive learning systems
Healthcare: Developing empathetic AI assistants for patient care
Robotics: Designing more naturalistic humanoid robots

As we continue to explore the frontiers of AI, projects like Baby X remind us of both the incredible potential and the profound responsibilities that come with creating increasingly human-like artificial intelligence.

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Tech

The AI Social Network You Didn’t See Coming

Published

4 days ago

April 18, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

In a world dominated by likes and follower counts, two Yale juniors are flipping the script. Nathaneo Johnson and Sean Hargrow, both 21-year-old Black founders, just raised $3.1 million in 14 days to launch Series—an AI-powered platform they call the “anti-Facebook.” Forget vanity metrics: this startup focuses on real connections by matching users through an AI agent that acts like a personal networking concierge.

Why Traditional Social Media Is Broken

Johnson and Hargrow noticed a glaring flaw in platforms like LinkedIn and Instagram: they prioritize performative posts over genuine relationships. “Social media is great for broadcasting, but it doesn’t help you meet the right people at the right time,” Johnson told Business Insider. Their solution? An AI “friend” that texts users to understand their goals—whether they need a mentor, investor, or co-founder—and then scours the network for matches.

How Series Works

Text Your AI Friend: Users chat via SMS or iMessage with an AI agent (like “Stevie” or “Oliver”) to specify what they’re looking for.
AI Does the Heavy Lifting: The AI analyzes user needs and searches the network for compatible connections, such as a Stanford student seeking a tech collaborator or a founder hunting for seed funding.
Meet Your Match: Introductions happen asynchronously, so users connect only when both parties are ready—no more waiting for Friday rollouts.

In its first week, Series facilitated 20,000 messages, proving that Gen Z is hungry for tools that prioritize substance over self-promotion.

The Founders’ Unlikely Journey

Standing at 6’5”, Johnson and Hargrow joke about being “a direct foil to the Harvard story” (a nod to Facebook’s origins). But their path wasn’t easy. As Black students in Yale’s entrepreneurship scene, they faced assumptions—from being mistaken for athletes to battling the “spray and pray” networking culture.

Their breakthrough came after a “million-dollar dinner” with investor Anne Lee Skates, who became their lead backer.The duo’s podcast, The Founder Series, gave them unique insights: “Success often hinges on engineered luck,” Hargrow said. “We’re building that luck into the system”.

What’s Next?

Series is expanding to Stanford, MIT, and other campuses, aiming to become the go-to network for student entrepreneurs. With Reddit CEO Steve Huffman and GPTZero’s Edward Tian as angel investors, the platform is poised to redefine how Gen Z builds professional relationships.

In a digital age obsessed with clout, Johnson and Hargrow’s mission is clear: “Forget your likes. Focus on who you are and what you can bring to the table”.

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Business

The Last of Us” Season 2: Cast and Creators Share Insights at SXSW

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

The cast and creators of the highly anticipated second season of “The Last of Us” gathered at SXSW to discuss the upcoming season. The panel featured cast members Pedro Pascal (Joel), Bella Ramsey (Ellie), Gabriel Luna (Tommy), Kaitlyn Dever (Abby), Isabela Merced (Dina), and Young Mazino (Jesse), along with co-creators Neil Druckmann and Craig Mazin.

Navigating Expectations and Surprising Fans

With the immense success of season one, Druckmann and Mazin acknowledged the pressure to deliver a worthy follow-up. Mazin emphasized their approach to cater to both fans of the game and newcomers to the series. “We try and think about the people who have played the game and make sure that we keep them on their toes and a little bit surprised,” Mazin stated. Druckmann highlighted the emotional weight of adapting “The Last of Us Part II,” emphasizing the dedication of the entire production team to doing justice to the source material.

A Glimpse into Season 2

Attendees were treated to a trailer for season two, offering a glimpse into the evolving relationship between Joel and Ellie five years after the events of the first season. Ramsey described the changed dynamic, hinting at a rift between the characters. Pascal added that their relationship is in “a different place” and that it is “fucking heartbreaking”.

Big Ideas: Tribalism, Love, and Loss

The creators delved into the central themes of season two, including tribalism, the destructive nature of love, and the consequences of loss. Druckmann explained that the season explores the complexities of community and the dehumanization that can occur when groups clash. Mazin emphasized the escalation of these themes, highlighting the potential for isolation and the lengths characters will go to protect their loved ones.

New and Expanded Characters

The panel also touched on new characters and expanded roles in season two. Gabriel Luna discussed Tommy’s evolution into a father, emphasizing how it solidifies his purpose and strengthens his commitment to protecting his family and community. The introduction of new characters like Gail, played by Catherine O’Hara, and the expansion of existing characters like Isaac, played by Jeffrey Wright, promise to add depth and nuance to the narrative. Additionally, the inclusion of Joe Pantoliano as Eugene, a character mentioned but not seen in the game, offers a rewarding experience for longtime fans.

Music as a Binding Force

Music continues to play a significant role in “The Last of Us,” particularly in the relationship between Joel and Ellie. Ramsey shared that music serves as a bonding experience for the characters, mirroring the connection between the actors on set. The guitar, a symbol of Joel’s promise to teach Ellie, takes on a more prominent role in season two.

Diving into the Game

The actors discussed their individual approaches to engaging with the source material. Kaitlyn Dever shared her experience playing the game with her father, while Young Mazino admitted to playing the second game up to a certain point.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.

Whether you’re a badge holder or not, SXSW 2025 offers something for everyone. From delicious food to live music and interactive experiences, there’s no shortage of fun to be had without spending a fortune. So, grab your friends and enjoy the best of Austin without a badge!

Business

No Badge? No Problem: Free SXSW Events

Published

1 month ago

March 9, 2025

Bolanle Media Staff

SXSW, one of the world’s most vibrant festivals, is underway in Austin, Texas, from March 7 to 15, 2025. While official badges can be pricey, there are plenty of free events and activities that allow everyone to join in on the fun without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to some of the best free events at SXSW 2025:

Free Food and Drinks

Argentinian Barbecue at Tech N’ Fest
- Enjoy a fusion of Argentinian and Texas barbecue, along with complimentary wine and beer, at Buenos Cafe on March 7.

Love is Blind at Lucille
- Celebrate the fifth anniversary of Netflix’s “Love is Blind” with free coffee and cocktails at Lucille on Rainey Street.
Free Pastries and Non-Alcoholic Beer
- Handsome’s and Helium Mobile are hosting a gathering with free pastries and non-alcoholic beer, featuring DJ Jah Karma.
Mionetto Salone
- Experience Italian culture with free spritzes and Prosecco at the Mex-Ar Museum.

Interactive Experiences

Whataburger’s Museum of Art
- Explore hundreds of pieces of fan art and interactive features at Wanderlust Wine Co. on March 8-9.
Barbie Birthday Cake Mochi
- Enjoy free mochi ice cream at the SX Registrant booth from March 7 to 12.
Artisan Mercado@SXSW
- Discover local artisans and their wares at 419 Congress Ave. on March 7..

Music and Entertainment

Rolling Stone’s Future of Music Showcase
- Catch live music performances at ACL Live from March 11 to 14.

Taiwan Beats Day Party
- Enjoy Taiwanese hip-hop performances and cuisine at Seven on East 7th Street.
Something To Feel X SXSW Rnb Party
- Dance the night away at 612 W 4th St on March 7.

Networking and Community Events

K-Content Night 2025 @ SXSW
- Enjoy free dinner and drinks at Parlor & Yard on March 8.
SXSW Creator & Publisher Happy Hour
- Network with industry leaders at Chisos Boot Company on March 8.

How to Find More Free Events

SXSW Official Schedule: Use the SXSW website to filter for free events.
Eventbrite: Browse listings for unofficial SXSW events, many of which are free or low-cost.